Fluorescence-Guided Resection of GL261 Red-FLuc and TRP-mCherry-FLuc Mouse Glioblastoma Tumors

Louis T Rodgers1, Bryan J Maloney1, Anika M S Hartz2,3

  • 1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.

Cancers
|March 13, 2025
PubMed

Insights

This study introduces a new protocol for 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) guided resection in preclinical glioblastoma (GBM) models. This clinically relevant method enhances survival and slows tumor progression in mice.

Area of Science:

  • Neuro-oncology
  • Surgical Oncology
  • Preclinical Cancer Models

Background:

  • Glioblastoma (GBM) preclinical studies often lack clinical translation.
  • 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) fluorescence-guided surgery improves GBM resection and patient outcomes.
  • Preclinical models need improved surgical elements for clinical relevance, especially for recurrent GBM.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop and validate a novel, clinically relevant protocol for 5-ALA-guided resection in preclinical GBM models.
  • To assess the efficacy of this protocol in improving survival and disease progression in mouse models.
  • To provide a platform for future research integrating adjuvant therapies for GBM.

Main Methods:

  • Development of a novel protocol for 5-ALA-guided resection.
  • Application of the protocol in two distinct mouse GBM models: TRP-mCherry-FLuc and GL261 Red-FLuc.
  • Evaluation of survival rates, weight loss, and tumor progression post-resection.

Main Results:

  • 5-ALA-guided resection significantly extended survival in both TRP-mCherry-FLuc and GL261 Red-FLuc GBM mouse models.
  • Resection mitigated weight loss and slowed tumor progression in treated mice compared to controls.
  • The protocol demonstrated feasibility and efficacy in preclinical settings.

Conclusions:

  • A clinically relevant protocol for 5-ALA-guided resection in preclinical GBM models was successfully established.
  • This protocol serves as a valuable platform for testing novel therapeutic strategies.
  • The findings support the integration of improved surgical techniques in preclinical research to enhance GBM treatment translation.

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