Adult brain tumour research in 2024: Status, challenges and recommendations

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology research
• Cancer research
• Medical research

Background:

• UK government and Cancer Research UK committed £45 million to neuro-oncology research starting in 2018.
• This funding followed significant patient, carer, and charity activism.
• The funding was allocated over a five-year period.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolution of the adult brain tumor research landscape in the UK.
• To identify persistent challenges and bottlenecks in neuro-oncology research.
• To assess progress and future needs in brain tumor research.

Main Methods:

• Review of the UK's adult brain tumor research landscape.
• Identification of universal research priorities and cross-cutting themes.
• Analysis of the status, challenges, and recommendations for each priority.

Main Results:

• Seven universal brain tumor research priorities were identified.
• Three cross-cutting themes spanning research from bench to bedside were identified.
• The study discusses the current status, challenges, and provides recommendations for each identified priority.

Conclusions:

• The UK's brain tumor research landscape has evolved due to increased funding and focused priorities.
• Addressing identified challenges and bottlenecks is crucial for continued progress.
• Recommendations are provided to optimize research from basic science to clinical application.