Glioblastoma Therapy: Past, Present and Future.

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Cancer Biology
• Translational Medicine

Background:

• Glioblastoma (GB) is the most common and lethal brain cancer, with survival rates largely unchanged since 2005.
• Recurrence is nearly universal despite current standard-of-care (SOC) treatments, highlighting an urgent need for improved therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in understanding glioblastoma pathophysiology, focusing on glioma stem cells (GSCs), tumor microenvironment, and epigenetic mechanisms.
• To analyze current and emerging therapeutic strategies for glioblastoma, including targeted therapies, immunotherapies, nanotherapies, and non-ionizing energy-based treatments.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent research on glioblastoma (GB) pathophysiology and therapeutic interventions.
• Discussion of standard-of-care (SOC) treatments, targeted therapies, immunotherapies, nanotherapies, and non-ionizing energy-based approaches.

Main Results:

• Glioblastoma growth, aggressiveness, and recurrence are influenced by glioma stem cells (GSCs), tumor microenvironment, and epigenetic factors.
• Targeted therapies, immunotherapies, nanotherapies, and non-ionizing energy modalities show promise but face challenges related to efficacy and resistance.

Conclusions:

• A deeper understanding of GB pathophysiology is crucial for developing effective treatments.
• Novel therapeutic approaches, including immunotherapy and nanotherapy, offer potential for improved patient outcomes and warrant further clinical investigation.