DelMar Pharmaceuticals and Accurexa to Collaborate in the Development of a Novel Combination Chemotherapy for the Local Treatment of Brain Cancer Val-083 is an experimental treatment (actually it is approved in China for other types of cancer) for brain tumors. It is similar to Temodar, but works at a different site which is not affected by the MGMT status of the patient. The VAL-083 trial for recurrent GBM should be considered for patients who have unmethylated MGMT.
This press release talks about combining VAL-083 with Temodar or BCNU, and implanting it at the time of surgery to increase the dosage of the drugs at the site of the tumor. Sounds exciting.
Human cytomegalovirus encoded chemokine receptor US28 activates the HIF-1?/PKM2 axis in glioblastoma cells. The concept of cytomegalovirus being associated with GBMs is controversial. Some researchers say 100% of GBM samples have it, others say none of them have it. I tend to agree with the ones that say it is very common in GBM samples. IF that is true, this study may show how CMV can promote the formation of tumors. And that opens the door for treatments. There is already an approved drug that fights CMV, and there is a brain tumor vaccine under development that targets the CMV. Preliminary results look good. This study also identifies other downstream targets which may be exploited.
The fourth weapon in the battle against cancer Nice story about one of the members of our online support group (Brain-novocure)! To join the group, go to https://virtualtrials.com/lists.cfm and select brain-Novocure
