Researchers at the University of Sussex, in collaboration with scientists from different institutes worldwide, have identified a blood test capable of early diagnosis of the most aggressive form of brain tumour, with the potential to save lives.
Lead author Professor Georgios Giamas and his team, have identified distinctive biomarkers (molecules that act as signs of normal processes, diseases, or responses to treatment) within patient blood samples, which could signal the presence of Glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive forms of brain tumour.
The study unveiled in the highly respected journal Cell Reports Medicine, investigated whether a simple blood test – analysing the cargo of tiny particles called small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) that are released by cells into the bloodstream – could accurately detect and classify these tumours.
More than 11,000 people are diagnosed with a primary brain tumour in the UK each year. Glioblastoma is the most common high grade primary brain tumour in adults, which means it can grow and spread exceptionally quickly. Currently, diagnosing glioma often requires risky brain surgery.
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