Brain Tumour Research is proud to announce a planned investment of £2.6 million in a new Centre of Excellence dedicated to studying the deadliest form of adult brain cancer.
Today, we launch an appeal to raise money to fund our sixth Centre, to be established at the University of Nottingham. Scientists there will focus on improving the understanding and treatment of glioblastoma.
Incurable and notoriously difficult to treat, glioblastoma is the most aggressive and common type of brain tumour, with an overall survival of just 12 to 18 months. Some cancer cells remain in the brain even after surgery, leading to regrowth, and once the tumour returns there is no effective treatment.
In a world-first study, researchers will use artificial intelligence (AI) to combine genomic data and advanced MRI imaging to predict the earliest signs of brain cancer recurrence. This approach will open options for personalised treatments to give patients a better prognosis and quality of life.
The news was welcomed by mum-of-four and glioblastoma patient Verity Phillips. The 35-year-old was diagnosed in 2022 and understands all too well the lack of hope that glioblastoma patients currently face.
She said: “Glioblastoma is brutal. Like most people diagnosed, I was given just 12 to 18 months to live. I’ve already beaten those odds, but I live from scan to scan, wondering how long I’ll be ‘lucky’ for. I’m a mum to four beautiful children; I want to be here for all the bedtime cuddles, all the silly squabbles and everything in between.
“We need more funding for more research now so that there are better treatments for all the mums who follow; for all those who will hear the words, ‘You have brain cancer’. The Nottingham Centre will be a beacon of hope to glioblastoma patients like me. I know my tumour isn’t going away, but as long as I’m here, I’ll continue to raise awareness and support research until a cure is found.”
Together with her husband Danny and their four children, Verity has raised £7,000 which will fund more than two days of research – with each day costing £2,740 at one of our Centres.
Professor Ruman Rahman, Principal Investigator at the new Centre in Nottingham, said: “We envision a future where, ultimately, brain imaging alone will identify drugs tailored to each individual patient, to block glioblastoma recurrence. This change won’t happen overnight – we need sustained investment in research into brain tumours to do the vital discovery and clinical work to make our vision of a cure for brain tumours a reality.”
CEO of Brain Tumour Research, Dan Knowles, said: “We are on the cusp of change – and with your help this new Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence at the University of Nottingham will play a pivotal role in delivering cutting-edge research to bring about the cure that is so desperately needed. Together, we have the chance to achieve our vision. Together we will find a cure.”
You can make a donation to help fund our new Centre and change the story for glioblastoma patients like Verity. Join us in the fight to find a cure.
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