We are pleased to announce that we have committed over £1 million in pioneering research in the UK and across the world. We are funding two different types of research through our funding schemes: expanding theories and clinical biomarkers.
Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40. On average, they reduce life expectancy by 20 years and have a devastating impact on quality of life. Yet only 1.5% of cancer research funding in the UK is spent on research into brain tumours. We understand that they only way to change this is by promoting quality research.
The expanding theories award is aimed at promoting innovative approaches that could fundamentally change our understanding, diagnosis, and/or management of brain tumours. The research projects are as follows:
- Targeting glioblastoma cell metabolism by Dr Vincenzo D’Angiolella. This research project is testing various drugs that will target mechanisms driving glioblastoma cell survival.
- Manipulating the tumour environment by Dr Gregor Hutter. Research aimed at understanding the interaction of tumour cells and other parts of the brain.
- Classifying brain tumours using artificial intelligence by Dr Phedias Diamandis. This research is using artificial intelligence to improve diagnoses and treatments.
The clinical biomarkers award is aimed at identifying and implementing different markers into the clinic. These markers will help accuracy of diagnosis, as well as tailor treatments. The research projects are follows:
- Understanding the effects of abnormal genes on treatment outcomes by Professor Martin van den Bent. The research project aims to find markers that will help tailor treatments for anaplastic gliomas.
- Understanding the significance of medulloblastoma subtypes by Dr Paul Northcott. The research project aims to match treatment outcomes to the four medulloblastoma subtypes.
The money committed to these research projects will improve our understanding of brain tumours, find effective therapies, and could change the overall management of brain tumours.