Brain Cancer in Kids Could Soon Be Detected by 10-Minute Scan

June 21, 2024 10:05:00

New research carried out by scientists at the University of Birmingham and Newcastle University has determined that a new brain scan could decrease waiting times for diagnosis for children living with brain cancer.

The most common form of brain cancer is medulloblastoma, which is further divided into four types: anaplastic or large cell medulloblastoma, medulloblastoma with extensive nodularity, classical medulloblastoma, and nodular or desmoplastic medulloblastoma.

Treatment of this cancer differs from one patient to another. In children, this cancer is a common malignant brain tumor that starts developing in the cerebellum. This region in the brain is responsible for coordinating movement and balance.

Latest data shows that an estimated 52 kids are diagnosed annually with brain cancer in the United Kingdom.

For their research, the scientists collected cell samples from 86 tumors then identified metabolic markers accurately using a 10-minute lab test. The research, which used MRI scanners with AI, determined that glutamate was associated with tumor prognosis. This metabolite was observed in all tumor cells.

The research at Birmingham Children’s Hospital was led by Professor Andrew Peet, who explained that identifying the chemicals necessary for every type of brain tumor was the first step to discovering new, targeted therapies for medulloblastoma. Peet then noted that this was also an opportunity to create personalized, less-invasive treatments for kids.

Professor Steve Clifford, director of Newcastle University’s Center for Cancer, explained that the 10-minute diagnosis test possessed the potential to allow early and noninvasive diagnosis and treatment-plan-tailoring for patients, which could revolutionize patient management. The scientists’ discovery could also lay the foundation for the use of machine learning combined with MRI scanning to evaluate medulloblastomas for unique metabolic profiles while eliminating the need for invasive biopsies.

In addition, the discovery greatly decreased the wait from when the disease starts presenting in patients to obtaining a final diagnosis.

Dr. Laura Danielson, Cancer Research UK children’s and young peoples research lead, stated that the research has identified a new method of differentiating between four subtypes of medulloblastoma and laid the foundation for the development of imaging tests that could rapidly and accurately diagnose different medulloblastoma types. Danielson noted that developing faster and less-invasive techniques for accurately diagnosing medulloblastoma was an important step in improving outcomes for pediatric patients.

The research was funded by Cancer Research UK and Children with Cancer UK. The scientists published their findings in “eBioMedicine.”

As brain-cancer diagnosis improves and drug developers such as CNS Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: CNSP) bring to market better therapeutics, the prospects of children and adults diagnosed with various brain cancers will improve from what the situation is at the moment.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to CNS Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: CNSP) are available in the company’s newsroom at https://ibn.fm/CNSP

About BioMedWire

BioMedWire (“BMW”) is a specialized communications platform with a focus on the latest developments in the Biotechnology (BioTech), Biomedical Sciences (BioMed) and Life Sciences sectors. It is one of 60+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. With broad reach and a seasoned team of contributing journalists and writers, BMW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that want to reach a wide audience of investors, influencers, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, BMW brings its clients unparalleled recognition and brand awareness.

BMW is where breaking news, insightful content and actionable information converge.

To receive SMS alerts from BioMedWire, “Biotech” to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.BioMedWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the BioMedWire website applicable to all content provided by BMW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.BioMedWire.com/Disclaimer

BioMedWire
San Francisco, CA
www.BioMedWire.com
415.949.5050 Office
[email protected]

BioMedWire is powered by IBN