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Updated: May 26, 2026

Delivery of Antibodies into the Murine Brain via Convection-enhanced Delivery
Published on: July 18, 2019
Convection-enhanced delivery of therapeutic agents into the brain
Michael A Vogelbaum1, Christopher A Iannotti
1Department of Neurological Surgery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA. vogelbm@neus.ccf.org
Abstract:
CED of therapeutic agents remains a promising strategy for treating malignant gliomas and non-neoplastic neurological diseases. Although initial clinical trials have failed to show survival benefit for new agents delivered via this approach, multiple earlier stage trials have addressed only a fraction of the myriad of technical and technological issues that surround this novel approach. Development of CED has been limited by the fact that both new technologies and novel therapeutic agents are being developed simultaneously.New trials are being planned to investigate agents that can be coinfused with radiographic tracers, as well as novel catheters that avoid problems with backflow and potentially will provide more reliable drug distribution.
Insights
Convection-enhanced delivery (CED) shows promise for brain diseases, but technical challenges hinder clinical success. Future trials will explore improved drug delivery methods for better therapeutic outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Convection-enhanced delivery (CED) is a promising strategy for treating malignant gliomas and non-neoplastic neurological diseases.
- Initial clinical trials using CED have not demonstrated survival benefits for new therapeutic agents.
- Numerous technical and technological challenges impede the widespread adoption and success of CED.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the technical and technological limitations of convection-enhanced delivery (CED).
- To explore novel approaches for optimizing drug distribution and efficacy in neurological treatments.
- To pave the way for more successful clinical applications of CED.
Main Methods:
- Simultaneous development of novel technologies and therapeutic agents for CED.
- Planning of new trials to investigate coinfusion of agents with radiographic tracers.
- Development of novel catheters designed to prevent backflow and improve drug distribution.
Main Results:
- While initial clinical trials faced challenges, earlier stage research has identified numerous technical issues.
- Ongoing research focuses on overcoming limitations in drug delivery and distribution.
- Planned trials aim to validate new technologies for more reliable CED.
Conclusions:
- CED remains a viable strategy for neurological diseases, but requires further technological advancement.
- Addressing technical challenges is crucial for realizing the full potential of CED in clinical settings.
- Future research and technological innovations are expected to enhance the efficacy and reliability of CED.
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