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Each brain tumor carries a distinct collection of genetic abnormalities that help determine the tumor's behavior, the patient's prognosis, and, potentially, which drugs or combinations will be most effective. And while certain genetic conditions increase the risk of developing glioblastomas, the majority of tumors are due to mistakes in the genetic code of normal brain cells. Some of these abnormalities are caused by massive chromosome damage, others by mutated genes and proteins.
Identifying the mutations in brain tumors that can serve as molecular targets for "smart" drugs is a significant part of our research focus. At Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, our goal is to develop molecularly targeted agents precisely aimed at the abnormal DNA in tumor cells. Scientists are hopeful that tumors will be less likely to develop resistance to these smart drugs, thereby improving outcomes and quality of life.
Through the advanced genomic testing performed on patients’ tumors at Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, our team is able to pinpoint the specific mutations in a patient’s tumor, allowing us to tailor treatment regimens to individual tumors.
Our researchers are investigating therapies that can target:
Through clinical trials, we are evaluating therapies that target these pathways. We are testing single agents as well as a combination of agents that block several malignant pathways simultaneously.
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