Targeted nanoparticles could offer new hope for glioblastoma patients

How a donation is helping researchers explore new ways of delivering drugs to treat a specific brain cancer.

This project, led by Dr Roy Ng, is tackling glioblastoma (GBM), one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat brain cancers. Known for its rapid growth and resistance to current treatments, GBM desperately needs new, more targeted therapies with fewer side effects.

This was made possible by the generous funding received from the parents of Laura Nuttall, an inspirational alumna who passed away from brain cancer in May 2023. In memory of their incredibly special daughter, Mark and Nicola Nuttall donated these funds in Laura’s name to our Centre to support vital research into brain cancer.

Using nanoparticles as drug carriers

The researchers are developing nanoparticles – tiny drug carriers – coated with a protein. The particles target brain cells called microglia, which normally protect the brain but, in GBM, become overactive and fuel tumour growth. The nanoparticles carry a drug which calms the microglia and reduces inflammation, potentially slowing tumour progression.

Over the next year, the team will test if this approach reduces inflammation and tumour growth in lab-grown tissues, including samples from GBM patients. If successful, the research could lead to a targeted therapy that works specifically on tumour-driving cells, avoiding damage to healthy tissue.

Positive results could also secure further funding to study how these nanoparticles work in the body, including their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier – a major challenge in brain cancer treatment.

Working together to make progress

This project is a great example of interdisciplinary collaboration. It brings together experts in nanotechnology, pharmacology, cancer research, and immunology, all working together to develop a new treatment for an incredibly challenging disease.

It highlights how donations directly enable innovative research and the funding for Dr Ng’s work allows the team to explore cutting-edge ideas and technologies, ultimately aiming to improve outcomes for patients with GBM and other hard-to-treat conditions.

With continued support and successful findings, this research could lead to major breakthroughs in GBM treatment and offer new hope for tackling other challenging cancers.

Read more on the Manchester Giving blog.