Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jan 02, 2025 2 days, 13 hours, 54 minutes ago
Medical News: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most aggressive and challenging brain tumors to treat. Known for its invasive growth and resistance to conventional therapies, GBM has left researchers worldwide seeking more effective treatment strategies. Despite advancements in surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, the average survival rate remains less than two years for most patients.
Innovative Ultrasound Therapy for Glioblastoma Treatment
Researchers from Jinling Hospital at Nanjing University, the Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Southeast University, and the Jinling Clinical Medical College have taken a novel approach to tackle GBM. They are leveraging ultrasound technology to precisely target and destroy GBM cells without harming surrounding healthy tissues. This
Medical News report delves into their groundbreaking study and its implications for future cancer treatment.
The Concept Behind Ultrasound-Induced Nuclear Resonance
The study introduced a biophysical precision therapy using ultrasound-induced nuclear resonance. The principle is based on the structural differences between tumor cells and normal cells, particularly in their nuclei. Tumor cells have larger and mechanically distinct nuclei compared to healthy cells. These differences result in unique resonance frequencies, which can be exploited to selectively target cancer cells.
In their experiments, the researchers used ultrasound frequencies tailored to these specific differences. By fine-tuning the ultrasound waves, they managed to induce resonance in tumor cell nuclei, causing physical disruption and ultimately cell death. Importantly, normal cells remained unaffected due to their distinct resonance properties.
Study Details and Key Findings
Laboratory and Animal Experiments
The researchers employed a combination of in vitro (test tube) and in vivo (animal) models to validate their approach. In vitro experiments revealed that both human and mouse GBM cells were sensitive to ultrasound frequencies of 0.3 MHz and 0.7 MHz. These frequencies caused significant cellular damage and apoptosis (programmed cell death) in GBM cells while sparing normal neural cells.
The animal models provided further evidence of efficacy. Mice with GBM tumors treated with specific ultrasound frequencies showed reduced tumor growth and increased survival rates. Notably, in the intracranial GBM model, a survival extension of approximately 21% was observed in mice exposed to the optimized ultrasound frequency of 0.3 MHz.
Mechanisms of Action
Through advanced imaging techniques and molecular analyses, the study demonstrated the effects of ultrasound on GBM cells. The ultrasound disrupted the tumor cell’s nucleus, cytoskeleton, and membrane. This led to a cascade of cellular damage, including DNA fragmentation and cytoskeletal collapse. Furthermore, apoptotic markers were significantly upregulated, confirming that the treatment effectively triggered cell death pathways.
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Human Tissue Validation
To bridge the gap between preclinical and clinical applications, the researchers tested the technology on fresh tumor samples obtained from GBM patients. These samples confirmed the presence of specific resonance frequencies that could selectively destroy tumor cells. This validation step underscores the potential for real-world applications of the therapy.
Advantages of the Therapy
-Non-Invasive Nature: Unlike conventional therapies, ultrasound therapy does not require surgical intervention or exposure to toxic chemicals.
-Precision Targeting: By exploiting the unique biophysical properties of GBM cells, the therapy minimizes damage to healthy brain tissues.
-Adaptability: The technique can be fine-tuned for individual patients based on their tumor’s resonance profile.
-Potential Synergy: This approach can complement existing therapies, potentially enhancing overall treatment outcomes.
Challenges and Future Directions
While the study results are promising, several hurdles must be addressed before widespread clinical adoption. The long-term safety of repeated ultrasound exposure needs thorough evaluation, especially concerning potential effects on normal brain functions. Additionally, scaling the technology for human use will require advancements in ultrasound delivery systems.
Conclusion
The study by the multidisciplinary team represents a significant leap forward in GBM treatment. By focusing on the physical differences between tumor and healthy cells, they have pioneered a method that is both precise and non-invasive. This innovative approach could redefine how we treat GBM and potentially other cancers with similar structural characteristics. However, clinical trials are essential to fully validate its efficacy and safety in humans.
The study findings were published on a preprint server and are currently being peer reviewed.
https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=5076088
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