Research to Evaluate a New Treatment for Glioblastoma Based on Photodynamic Therapy
Summary
Preclinical project based on the hypothesis that the combination of a photosensitizing drug such as 5-aminolevulinic acid (typically used to label glioblastoma tumor cells as a guide during surgical tumor resection) and a light source could function as a cytotoxic agent against the tumor, and consequently serve as a photodynamic treatment for glioblastoma. The primary objective of the project is to develop a new therapeutic approach for glioblastoma treatment. To achieve this, the following specific objectives are outlined:
- Establish a technological platform based on an in vitro model of glioblastoma in human brain organoids, mini-brains, to replicate a 3D human model of glioblastoma.
- Conduct a proof-of-concept study based on photodynamic therapy using photosensitizing molecules as new antitumor agents.
Positive results obtained in the initial phases of the study, published in the journal Cells, have motivated the planning of a new study phase focused on examining the contribution of the glioblastoma microenvironment to the response to photodynamic therapy in co-cultures of brain organoids.
Pedrosa L et al. Preclinical Studies with Glioblastoma Brain Organoid Co-Cultures Show Efficient 5-ALA Photodynamic Therapy. Cells. 2023 Apr 10;12(8):1125
Collaborating entities:
- Experimental Neurosurgical Oncology Laboratory, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona
- August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS)
- Department of Cellular Biology, Physiology, and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona
- Institute of Environmental Diagnosis and Water Studies (IDAEA-CSIC)
- Experimental Neurosurgical Oncology Laboratory, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona
- August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS)
Duration
2019-2023