IPRD funded research by Yi Ren
Pediatric glioblastoma multiforme is a rare and aggressive pediatric brain tumor known for its resistance to both radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The glioblastoma tumor cells can engulf debris and lipids from various sources, including from their own cells and myelin debris. Such tumor cell “cannibalism” appears to be a common mechanism driving tumor progression. Targeting the cannibalism pathways could represent a novel therapeutic approach potentially improving treatment outcomes. Surprisingly, the tumor cells rather than macrophages, the “professional” scavengers. This research project will investigate whether blocking the uptake and degradation of cell debris by tumor cells could inhibit debris-induced tumor progression and resistance to radiation and chemotherapy.
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