Pioneering technology to explore new treatments for fast-growing brain tumours

Sheffield researchers are using pioneering technology to exploit DNA repair in brain tumour cells to explore new treatments for fast-growing brain tumours.

New research conducted by researchers at the University of Sheffield in partnership with the Trust aims to find weaknesses in the ability of glioma cells, or cells found in the brain, to repair their DNA and survive treatment.

The research will explore why some cells from different locations within the same tumour can withstand chemotherapy and radiotherapy better than others. The researchers hope that developing a cell-by-cell understanding of DNA repair mechanisms will improve the success of treatment and extend the lives of those living with a glioblastoma.

Glioblastoma is a rare form of brain cancer that affects about 3,000 patients in the UK each year.

Study lead Dr Ola Rominiyi said: “We hope that by understanding the different cells within a tumour, as well as the cells which spread to nearby brain tissue, we can find ways to effectively switch off DNA repair in the cells, which will help to re-route the cancerous cells and improve patient outcomes and survival.”