Investigating the signalling processes that determine directional glioblastoma cell migration

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive primary brain tumour, and currently has a median survival of approximately 15 months. GBM is characterised by a highly infiltrative growth pattern that contributes to both treatment resistance and the severe neurological symptoms experienced by patients. As a consequence, there is a pressing need to identify the mechanisms that drive GBM cell invasion into the normal brain tissue and uncover novel therapeutic targets.

Glioblastoma cells extend long, neurite projections called ‘Tumour Microtubes’ (TM) that allow connectivity between cells and also act as ‘path-finding’ structures during invasion (1). This project will investigate the underlying mechanisms that direct TM extension through the brain matter to ultimately allow tumour cell migration by sensing and remodelling the local microenvironment.

This project will utilise a range of advanced imaging techniques (multiphoton, super resolution etc) to interrogate these processes in sophisticated in vitro and in vivo models of GBM that are available at the Institute of Cancer Sciences, under the guidance of extensive local expertise.

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