Home / Science / UK Funds Crucial Brain Tumor Research
UK Funds Crucial Brain Tumor Research
15 Sep
Summary
- Scientists study tumor development and immune system role.
- Funding challenges hinder translation of research to therapies.
- Charities advocate for increased government investment in research.
At a UK research center, 50 scientists are investigating the origins of low-grade tumors and the potential role of the immune system in their growth. Professor David Parkinson of the neuroscience department noted that while a trial is underway to repurpose anti-retroviral drugs for Schwannoma treatment, securing funding is a persistent challenge.
The facility houses a biobank with approximately 1,000 tumor and blood samples from consenting patients treated at Derriford Hospital. The long-term goal is to develop personalized treatments for over 120 tumor types by targeting specific genetic changes.
Brain Tumour Research is funding a five-year program at the Plymouth facility, with charities currently supplying an estimated 75% of research funding. The organization advocates for the government to match investment levels seen in other cancer research areas, citing successes in breast cancer and leukemia as examples of what dedicated funding can achieve.
