Brain Tumour Research is proud to announce a transformative £2.8 million funding boost for its Centre of Excellence at the University of Plymouth, where researchers are focused on accelerating new treatments for low-grade brain tumours.
Our Plymouth Centre is a hub for world-leading research into low-grade tumours including glioma, meningioma and schwannoma. There are currently limited treatment options for these tumours beyond surgery and radiotherapy, both of which can have significant side effects.
The five-year funding support will enable scientists to deepen their understanding of how these tumours develop and translate that knowledge into life-changing therapies. The team will explore different pathways to improve treatments, including understanding the role of the immune system in tumour growth, finding new drugs to make radiotherapy more effective and testing existing drugs for other medical conditions to see if they can make an impact in brain tumours. After the first three years, the Centre will undergo an expert review designed to track progress and strengthen its impact.
Meningioma cells seen using confocal microscopy
David Parkinson, Professor of Neuroscience at the University of Plymouth and the newly appointed Director of the Centre, said: “It is an honour to lead the Plymouth Centre into this exciting new chapter. This investment from Brain Tumour Research will allow us to build on the world-class foundation established here over the last 10 years and accelerate progress towards much-needed treatments for low-grade brain tumours. By working across disciplines and focusing on translating discoveries from the lab to the clinic, we aim to make a real difference to patients and their families.”
The investment has been welcomed by patients affected by the disease, including our Ambassador Craig Russell. The actor and producer underwent surgery at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth for a meningioma in March 2023.
“Low-grade tumours aren’t low impact. With limited treatment options, these tumours have lifelong consequences for patients and their families. I am incredibly pleased that Brain Tumour Research is continuing the partnership with the University of Plymouth, focused on delivering tangible progress for patients. Together we will find a cure,” Craig said.
Craig at the Wall of Hope at our Plymouth Centre
Dan Knowles, our CEO, said: “This £2.8 million funding from Brain Tumour Research secures the future of our Centre of Excellence at the University of Plymouth, allowing our scientists to continue their world-leading work into the causes, prevention, and treatment of brain tumours. Sustained, long-term funding like this is essential if we are to make the breakthroughs that will ultimately lead to better treatments and, we hope, a cure.
“We are also delighted to welcome Professor David Parkinson as the newly appointed Director of the Centre. His leadership, experience, and vision will play a crucial role in driving forward the innovative research taking place in Plymouth, bringing renewed momentum and hope to patients and families affected by brain tumours.”
Your support makes these game-changing investments possible. Thank you.
If you would like to help fund the work across our network of Research Centres, please consider making a one-off or regular donation to our Christmas Appeal. With your help, we can change the story for brain tumour patients.
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