A novel technology designed to precisely image aggressive brain cancers and guide treatment is being developed, with human trials about to begin. If successful, the new approach will help thousands of people who are diagnosed with the deadly condition each year.
The new MRI nanotechnology targets a specific marker that is found in more than 90 per cent of solid tumours, including high-grade brain cancers.
Already yielding promising preclinical results in a prostate cancer model, the technology is in development at the University of South Australia, together with Australian cancer diagnostic company, Ferronova.
Newly received funding will progress the technology towards a first in-human trial, with the potential to have a significant impact on aggressive brain cancers.
Turning around terrible numbers
UniSA’s Dr Nicole Dmochowska is leading the research, supported by a REDI Fellowship. Dr Dmochowska says there is a critical need for better imaging of high-grade brain tumours.
‘The prognosis for high-grade brain tumours such as glioblastoma remains abysmal, so it’s vital that we progress new technologies that can potentially enable more precise targeting of tumours,’ she said.
‘This research will advance a cutting-edge imaging technology… designed to more accurately image and therefore treat brain tumours with no additional neurotoxicity,’ said Dr Dmochowska.
Better imaging saves lives
Dr Hien Le, a radiation oncologist at the Royal Adelaide Hospital and one of the chief investigators in the seed funding for this work, says the research has potential to advance cancer treatments.
‘As someone who specialises in the management of brain cancer, I understand the importance of accurate tumour delineation,’ said Dr Le. ‘Better imaging means we can more confidently define the tumour target, facilitating precise treatment delivery, whilst minimising damage to normal healthy tissues.’
In 2021, there were 1896 new diagnoses of brain cancer (1191 males and 725 females). Glioblastoma is the most common brain malignancy with a five-year survival rate of only 5 per cent.
Precision
Dr Melanie Nelson, R&D Manager at Ferronova, says the research will streamline preclinical validations for the technology for brain tumours, in preparation for a phase 1 ‘first in human’ clinical trial.
‘Ferronova is determined to transform the precision of cancer imaging, surgery and therapy to ensure that everyone diagnosed with cancer is given the best possible care,’ said Dr Nelson.
‘The new technology builds on Ferronova’s cancer staging technology FerroTrace currently undergoing clinical trials in several cancer types.
‘By bringing together the best minds in chemistry, bioengineering and oncology we’re continuing to push the boundaries to help make sure no one dies unnecessarily because a cancer was missed,’ she said.
