New brain tumour techniques trialled

A phase 2 clinical trial, GALA-5, has started in the UK for a new surgical technique to combat brain tumours.

The Samantha Dickson Brain Tumour Trust (SDBTT) is working in partnership with Cancer Research UK to fund the trials, and if proven to be safe and effective, a larger phase 3 trial will take place.

GALA-5 will involve over 60 patients newly diagnosed with glioblastoma, the most common and harmful primary malignant brain tumour in adults. The technique involves combining two treatments.

The first one is called 5-ALA, which is converted in the body to a fluorescent chemical, making the tumour glow under ultraviolet light during surgery. This will allow surgeons to see the edges of the tumour more clearly, allowing more accurate and complete tumour removal.

The second therapy is given after the tumour is removed, and involves inserting wafers impregnated with the chemotherapy drug carmustine into the cavity. Carmustine is then released locally to help kill remaining tumour cells.

Dr Colin Watts (HEFCE Clinical Senior Lecturer) at the University of Cambridge, said: “I strongly feel that our best opportunity to progress further is to emphasise funding of lab-based research and innovative trials and the GALA-5 trial is a significant step forward in making this a reality.”

Neil Dickson, founder and chair of trustees of SDBTT said: “We are proud to be funding this trial, which we hope will make a real difference to the lives of people diagnosed with a glioblastoma.

“Brain tumour research receives a fraction of the funding of that of higher profile cancers and it is our priority to redress the balance. This is essential as figures show that advances in treatment, achieved through the dedicated work of committed researchers over the years, have had a beneficial effect.”

Kate Law, director of clinical research at Cancer Research UK, said: “Treating brain tumours is a real challenge facing clinicians and we urgently need new treatments to help more people diagnosed with the disease.

“By working together we are able to fund more research and really focus on areas that are going to make a telling difference.”