Nasal Drops Erase Brain Tumors in Mice

A novel non-invasive treatment for aggressive brain cancers has been developed using nasal drops to deliver an anti-cancer medicine directly to the brain. This new approach, pioneered by researchers at Washington University School of Medicine and Northwestern University, has demonstrated the ability to eradicate glioblastoma tumors in mice.

Glioblastomas, known as "cold tumors," typically evade the body's natural immune response. The new therapy activates the STING pathway, a crucial component of the immune system, by using engineered nanostructures called spherical nucleic acids. This targeted activation primes the immune system to effectively fight the cancer without spreading to other body parts.

When combined with T lymphocyte activators, the nasal drop therapy eradicated tumors in mice with minimal doses and induced long-term immunity. Researchers are optimistic that this method, a critical step towards clinical application, could lead to safer and more effective treatments for glioblastoma and other immune-resistant cancers.