Characterisation of glioblastoma subtypes: implications for therapy resistance

Abstract

Glioblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumour in adults. Categorised by The World Health Organization as a grade IV glioma, it is the most aggressive, invasive form of glioma with a median survival time of 14.6 months. The incidence in the United States is approximately is two to three per 100,000. Glioblastoma is about 40% more common in males than in females and the average age at diagnosis is 64 years. Despite aggressive medical intervention including surgical resection followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, treatment increases survival by a median of only 2.5 months. Tumour recurrence occurs in the brain, frequently adjacent to the site of the original tumour. New therapies are needed to combat metastatic disease and tumour regeneration after therapy.