Register for free to
view the full innovation profile.
New method to treat, relocate, or remove invasive or inaccessible tumors and tumors are able to migrate on manufactured fibers or films instead of healthy brain tissue
About
Summary Researchers at Georgia Tech have identified a potential new treatment for pediatric medulloblastomas by exploiting their migratory nature and invasive techniques. Their strategy involves engineering an alternate pathway for tumor cells to migrate away from the tumor site, to an apoptotic “sink”, or to direct therapeutic cells to the tumor. The researchers have designed a nanofiber-based film coated with proteins that attract medulloblastoma cells and encourage unidirectional movement by using a gradient of increasing protein concentration. The tumor will be directed to the surface of the brain for surgical removal or to a “sink” that contains an apoptotic hydrogel. This new method guides the tumor to the drug rather than delivering the drug to the tumor, which is inefficient due to the irregular vasculature and poor transport features of tumor tissues.