Scientists Find Way to Slow Brain Cancer
A team of Canadian researchers has discovered a new trick to slow down glioblastoma, the most aggressive brain tumor that doctors cannot cure today.
Brain Cells Help Tumor Grow
They learned that some brain cells, which normally keep nerves healthy, can actually help the tumor grow. These cells send signals that make cancer cells stronger. When the scientists blocked those signals in lab experiments, the tumors grew much slower.
Existing HIV Drug May Offer Help
The study also points to a drug already used for HIV. The medicine, called Maraviroc, blocks a receptor named CCR5 that the tumor uses to listen to the brain cells. Because the drug is already approved, it could be tested for brain‑cancer patients more quickly.
Why This Matters
Glioblastoma patients usually have only a few months to live. Finding a way to slow the disease and using a medicine that is already on the market gives new hope for better treatments.
Research Background
Earlier work showed that cancer cells can hijack pathways meant for brain development. This new research adds to that knowledge by showing how breaking the conversation between brain cells and tumor cells can shrink the tumor.
The project was funded by a Canadian brain‑tumor fellowship and the national health‑research agency. One of the lead scientists holds a top research chair in cancer stem‑cell biology.