International: A team of innovative Russian researchers has unveiled a groundbreaking microfluidic platform, meticulously designed to replicate the intricate blood flow within the brain. This pioneering invention promises to significantly enhance the efficacy of glioblastoma treatment, a notoriously aggressive and treatment-resistant form of brain cancer.
Developed through a collaborative effort between the Institute of Bionic Technologies and Engineering and Sechenov University’s Institute of Regenerative Medicine, the device provides a uniquely authentic environment for glioblastoma cells. This allows them to thrive in conditions mirroring those found in the human brain, offering an unparalleled opportunity to assess therapeutic performance in a remarkably realistic setting.
Crucial insights from the study reveal that exposing the platform to red light activates specific ion channels within the cancer cells. This activation, in turn, boosts the uptake of temozolomide, a widely utilised chemotherapy drug. As Associate Professor Alexander Markov, who spearheaded this transformative research, explained, this mechanism facilitates more effective drug penetration into the cancer cells.
“Ion channels function akin to pumps,” stated Markov. “Red light amplifies their activity, enabling a greater quantity of the drug to permeate and reach the cell nucleus, which ultimately translates to a substantially elevated rate of cancer cell demise.”
Laboratory trials have yielded astounding results, demonstrating that red light stimulation contributed to the destruction of an impressive 95–98% of glioblastoma cells. This outcome marks a five-fold improvement compared to samples that were not exposed to the light. The research team harbours ambitious plans to adapt this revolutionary platform for the future development and testing of combined therapies, aiming to combat other forms of cancer as well.
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