Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and the most malignant brain tumour. No cure is available, despite significant improvements in surgical techniques and radiation technology. Although GBM progression is limited to the microenvironment of the brain, the genetically intrinsic and extrinsic heterogeneity of this tumour together with its rapid and infiltrative growth pattern makes it incurable.
This projects aims to identify whether spatial heterogeneity in GBM is associated with differences in cell migration and adhesion, and whether this spectrum of behaviour could explain differential tumour progression and clinical outcome (survival, recurrence). Using imaging biomarkers developed in Dr Price’s group, different regions within the tumour will be biopsied to assess the mechanical features in these areas (such as migratory properties and strength of adhesion). Based on mechanical characteristics of the cells, the project will help establish new biomarkers to better identify the site of tumour progression and assess the efficacy of local radiotherapies for these tumours.
| Dr Rasha Rezk |
Department of Engineering |
| Dr. Alexandre Kabla |
Department of Engineering |
| Dr. Stephen Price |
Department of Clinical Neurosciences |
