INTRATUMORAL MODULATION THERAPY FOR GLIOBLASTOMA

Hu Xu, Mitchell Cooper,Cleusa de Oliveira, Eugene Wong, Susanne Schmid and Matthew O. Hebb

Department of ClinicalNeurological Sciences, Western University, Canada

Abstract

There is a critical need for effective strategies to treat glioblastoma (GBM), the most deadly and common primary brain cancer in adults. GBM cells are vulnerable to perturbations in the electrochemical environment but the only form of electrotherapy currently available is an extracranial system that requires the patient to wear a network of electrodes perpetually on the shaved scalp to produce electric fields. We have been pioneering a new treatment, called intratumoral modulation therapy (IMT), which uses small electrodes implanted directly at the site of the tumor. An IMT device that delivers current within tumor-affected brain regions may exploit the known electrosensitivity of GBM cells while providing anatomically targeted, sustained and titratable therapy with low maintenance, concealed hardware for improved self-perception and quality of life. The outcomes of preclinical studies suggest that IMT may provide direct anti-cancer benefits, enable development of personalized gene therapies and enhance the effect of existing treatments to improve outcomes for patients with GBM and other systemic and nervous system tumors.