Project 457564

Gliomas represent the vast majority of malignant brain tumors and include a diverse range of pathologies that all share one common feature: they are incurable. When gliomas recur after treatment, they are often more aggressive and associated with a poor prognosis. Currently, a combination of imaging studies or repeat surgery are needed to predict recurrence, but these methods have limitations. Our lab previously demonstrated that we can diagnose gliomas by analyzing DNA shed by tumor cells present in the blood of patients with brain tumors. Expanding on this concept, my project will use blood samples to predict when a patient's glioma will recur and become more aggressive. The purpose of this research is to identify and predict glioma recurrence and progression using markers present in the blood in order to avoid invasive surgical procedures, better counsel brain tumor patients and their caregivers, and provide personalized care and treatment. To do this, we will analyze blood samples from the same patient collected at two times: tumor diagnosis and tumor recurrence, in order to determine how tumor cells in the blood change when the tumor becomes more aggressive. These changes will allow us to predict when gliomas will become more aggressive through a simple blood test. This will revolutionize patient care. Being able to closely monitor a patient's tumor using a blood test instead of frequent imaging scans or repeat surgery will allow patients and clinicians the ability to provide more timely and appropriate care.