Given that glioblastoma tumors are capable of making their own blood supply, these tumors are often aggressive and difficult to treat. The current standards-of-care are still relatively ineffective. As a result, the five-year survival rate for glioblastoma is incredibly low. Finding novel and effective treatment options is crucial and necessary for this community.
That is what Danish biotechnology company Curasight A/S is working to do: improve the lives of people with cancers through the development of these novel therapeutics. For the realm of aggressive brain cancer, which comprises both glioblastoma and high-grade glioma, Curasight is developing uTREAT, which the company describes as:
a new type of targeted radiation therapy, targeting and irradiating the cancer cells and almost not healthy tissue. By injecting a substance that seeks all cancer cells, including the metastases that are far away from the primary tumor, this offers a personalized and tailored therapy to each patient.
In a recent news release, Curasight shared data from preclinical studies evaluating uTREAT for glioblastoma. Animal models receiving uTREAT saw increased survival rates. In a preclinical model of human glioblastoma, uTREAT stopped the tumor from growing any further.
Moving forward, Curasight hopes to move the research into a human and clinical setting.
What is Glioblastoma?
Glioblastoma, also known as stage IV astrocytoma, is a rare and aggressive brain cancer. This cancer comprises around 20% of all brain tumors. The underlying cause of glioblastoma is unknown, but scientists and doctors have identified risk factors. For example, if you have ever had pre-existing radiation therapy, are male, or have genetic conditions such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome, your risk of developing glioblastoma is higher. Symptoms may include memory loss, seizures, double or blurred vision, severe headaches, nausea and vomiting, impaired speech, drowsiness, unilateral weakness, and changes in mood, behavior, or personality. Learn more about glioblastoma.
