Research Themes
Researchers at the Clark H. Smith Brain Tumor Center have diverse research interests and expertise, yet share a common vision and common goals. Research within the Smith Center can be grouped into 6 common themes that encompass some of the most promising and most critical areas of current brain tumor research and are particular strengths of our Center.
1. Basic Mechanisms of Tumor Development
Understanding the molecular and cellular changes that drive brain tumor growth and spread is the first step towards the design of better treatments for these cancers. Scientists at the Smith Center investigate many aspects of the basic mechanisms of tumor development using genetic, biochemical, and cell biological approaches in vitro, and in vivo in animal models. These studies also examine the mechanisms through which tumor cells become resistant to radiation and chemotherapy in order to identify new ways to eliminate these resistant cells.
2. Brain Tumor Stem Cell Studies
A recent paradigm shift in the understanding of brain tumor biology involves the identification of a subpopulation of cells thought to act as brain tumor stem cells (BTSCs). Self-renewing BTSCs are molecularly distinct from other brain tumor cells, and are thought to form a "disease reservoir" that is resistant to conventional therapies, enabling the regrowth and continued proliferation of these tumors. Smith Center investigators are currently characterizing the unique molecular and biological profiles of BTSCs to identify novel therapeutic targets and develop treatments that specifically attack BTSCs.
3. Molecular Classification
It is increasingly clear that cancer is a complex and heterogeneous disease, and brain tumors are no exception. Molecular profiling of tumours will allow the identification of subclasses of tumors that cannot be distinguished by standard clinical indicators or histopathology. Ongoing studies are examining the molecular profiles of different types of brain tumors, with the goal of correlating this data with patient prognosis and clinical responses. Ultimately, the development of individualized treatment approaches where the molecular profile of each patient's tumor informs diagnosis and treatment decisions is expected to improve patient survival and quality of life.
4. Non-Invasive Diagnosis
Brain imaging of brain tumor patients has helped with treatment planning, but its full potential is not yet realized. New imaging and data analysis techniques could revolutionize the treatment of brain tumors by enabling non-surgical diagnosis and molecular profiling and providing a powerful new means of customizing treatments and evaluating tumour responses.
5. Experimental Therapeutics
A wide variety of basic, preclinical, and clinical research at the Smith Center is directed towards the development of novel therapeutics for brain tumors, including improved methods of delivery and investigation of mechanisms of action and clinical effects. Areas of emphasis include strategies to overcome resistance to radiation and chemotherapy agents and to block brain tumor invasion. Smith Center researchers are also leaders in the development of brain tumor therapies using oncolytic viruses, which are promising new anticancer agents that are currently being tested in clinical trials.
