Scientists at the University of Plymouth’s Brain Tumor Center have used the tiny fruit fly Drosophila to gain insights into stopping the growth of brain tumours.
Using the fruit fly model, researchers successfully identified and examined cells in the early stages of development. This pioneering approach has shed light on glioma tumors, especially aggressive variants such as glioblastoma.
Characterized by rapid growth and invasion of healthy brain tissue, glioblastomas present a difficult challenge to treat and poor survival rates. Symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, and seizures indicate a brain tumor.
The importance of this research goes beyond academic curiosity alone. Although glioblastomas can affect people of any age, they are more common in older adults.
By looking at the molecular mechanisms that drive tumor growth in these tiny insects, scientists are on the way to therapeutic interventions that could ultimately benefit patients battling brain tumors.
According to Dr. Claudia Barroso, their research reveals that the preparatory mechanism is important for tumor growth. Using the Drosophila mouse, the team examined cells in the early stages of brain tumor development and found significant differences in metabolic and protein balance compared to normal cells.
Dr Karen Noble, from the charity Brain Tumor Research, said these early findings have the potential to develop more effective treatments aimed at tumor cells, improving patient outcomes.
This groundbreaking research demonstrates the value of abnormal model organisms in biomedical research and holds the promise of more effective treatments in the fight against glioblastoma and other malignant brain tumors.
