2025-08-11
A new study led by Uppsala University has discovered three genes that control how glioblastoma spreads in the brain, opening doors to better targeted treatments.
Researchers from Uppsala University have made a major discovery in the fight against glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer. The study, published in Nature Communications, identifies three genes that play a crucial role in how the tumor spreads in the brain.
🔗 Read the original article from Uppsala University
Glioblastoma is known for its rapid, diffuse infiltration of brain tissue. Unlike many other cancers, it rarely forms distant metastases. Instead, it spreads locally, making it difficult to remove completely through surgery or treat effectively with standard therapies.
A team led by Professor Sven Nelander has identified three genes – ANXA1, HOPX, and RFX4 – that influence how glioblastoma cells move through brain tissue.
Interestingly, different glioblastoma cells seem to “choose” distinct invasion patterns. Some grow along blood vessels, while others spread more diffusely through brain matter. These behaviours were linked to which genes were active in the cells.
When the researchers disabled the genes in preclinical models, tumour growth patterns changed. In several cases, the interventions also extended survival in animal models. These results suggest that the genes could be potential targets for future treatments, including gene therapy.
The study also found that proteins produced by these genes were present in patient tissue samples. Moreover, high levels of ANXA1 and RFX4 were linked to poorer survival, suggesting that these proteins could serve as biomarkersfor disease prognosis.
This offers hope for more precise and personalized therapies – a key goal within the evolving field of cell and gene therapy.
This research provides important insights into the biology of glioblastoma and supports the growing relevance of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs). By targeting the genetic drivers of tumour spread, future therapies may be better equipped to control or slow disease progression.
At ATMP Sweden, we continue to highlight and support groundbreaking Swedish research that accelerates the development of innovative, personalised treatments in the field of ATMP, gene therapy, and beyond.