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RESEARCH FOR GLIOBLASTOMA MULTIFORME
Glioblastoma Multiforme
TCGA researchers have identified a new subtype of GBM that affects younger adults and has an increased survival rate. A subset of GBM tumors had specific chemical changes or ‘marks’ called methylation of a large group of genes. The methylation of these genes may account for the improved survival of these patients when compared to patients with other subtypes of GBM. These findings could aid in the development of new treatment options for these patients.
New Gene Changes and Signaling Pathways
The findings validated TCGA’s approach by confirming previously discovered GBM gene mutations and uncovering new mutations in these genes. For example, scientists have known that mutations in the NF1 gene are involved in GBM’s development, but they have been unsure how important a role they play.
Genomics and Biology of Glioblastoma
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) and National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) held a workshop entitled, “Genomics and Biology of Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM),” to review the initial GBM data from the TCGA pilot project.
Four Distinct Subtypes of Glioblastoma
Using its previously published description of genomic changes that drive glioblastoma (GBM) tumor development, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) researchers have now established the existence of four subtypes of GBM.
Findings on Subtypes of Glioblastoma
New findings by researchers at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center suggest that the most common form of malignant brain cancer in adults, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), is probably not a single disease but a set of diseases, each with a distinct underlying molecular disease process. The study was published by Cell Press in the January issue of the journal Cancer Cell, and the researchers are part of The Cancer Genome Atlas.
Clinical Finds on Glioblastoma
Stephen Baylin, M.D., discusses the potential clinical implications of decoding the brain cancer genome in a combined effort with The Cancer Genome Atlas at the National Cancer Institute
Identifying Important Gene Alterations
Cancer genomics researchers are exploring new ways to sort through the mountains of TCGA-generated data on gene changes from cancers like glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). GBM is a lethal adult brain cancer with a mean survival time of little more than a year.
A comprehensive view of GBA Genome
Scientists from the University of Helsinki in Finland1 have developed a computer program called Anduril that combines, organizes, and analyzes the massive amounts of data generated from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). To demonstrate the system’s features, they used TCGA’s genomic data on glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most common adult brain tumor.
Discovery of a Gene Pathway Interaction
Cancer genomics researchers are increasingly using TCGA data to develop and test hypotheses about how cancer develops. TCGA’s recently completed glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) dataset of gene changes has informed several recent studies, including one from Harvard and Northwestern researchers in the September 2010 issue of Genes and Development.
Causes of Glioblastoma
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For unknown reasons, GBM occurs more commonly in males. Most glioblastoma tumors appear to be sporadic, without any genetic predisposition. No links have been found between glioblastoma and smoking, consumption of cured meat, or electromagnetic fields. Alcohol consumption may be a possible risk factor.
Resources For Glioblastoma
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Astrocytomas are classified according to a grading system developed by the World Health Organization (WHO). Astrocytomas come in four grades based upon how fast the cells are reproducing and that likelihood that they will infiltrate nearby tissue. Grades I or II astrocytomas are nonmalignant and may be referred to as low-grade. Grades III and IV astrocytomas are malignant and may be referred to as high-grade astrocytomas. Grade III astrocytomas are known as anaplastic astrocytomas. Grade IV astrocytomas are known as glioblastoma multiforme.
Treatments For Glioblastoma
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Many people believe the best approach to glioblastoma treatment is a comprehensive one, utilizing the most effective aspects of every treatment mode, including the latest drugs and surgery from conventional Western (allopathic) medicine to exotic botanicals and alternative healing.
The hallmark of brain tumors is their heterogeneity; every patient and every tumor is different. Presented here are treatment options which have helped a wide variety of glioblastoma patients.