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Adult brain tumour research in 2024: Status, challenges and recommendations
Karin Purshouse1, Helen J Bulbeck2, Alasdair G Rooney3
1Institute of Genetics and Cancer, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
Abstract:
In 2015, a groundswell of brain tumour patient, carer and charity activism compelled the UK Minister for Life Sciences to form a brain tumour research task and finish group. This resulted, in 2018, with the UK government pledging £20m of funding, to be paralleled with £25m from Cancer Research UK, specifically for neuro-oncology research over the subsequent 5 years. Herein, we review if and how the adult brain tumour research landscape in the United Kingdom has changed over that time and what challenges and bottlenecks remain. We have identified seven universal brain tumour research priorities and three cross-cutting themes, which span the research spectrum from bench to bedside and back again. We discuss the status, challenges and recommendations for each one, specific to the United Kingdom.
Insights
UK neuro-oncology research funding increased significantly in 2018, prompting a review of changes and remaining challenges in adult brain tumor research. This analysis identifies key priorities and themes to advance brain tumor research from lab to patient care.
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.
