Current Perspectives on Therapies, Including Drug Delivery Systems, for Managing Glioblastoma Multiforme

ACS Chem Neurosci. 2020 Oct 7;11(19):2962-2977. doi: 10.1021/acschemneuro.0c00555. Epub 2020 Sep 18.

Abstract

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a standout among the most dangerous class of central nervous system (CNS) cancer, is most common and is an aggressive malignant brain tumor in adults. In spite of developments in modality therapy, it remains mostly incurable. Consequently, the need for novel systems, strategies, or therapeutic approaches for enhancing the assortment of active agents meant for GBM becomes an important criterion. Currently, cancer research focuses mainly on improving the treatment of GBM via diverse novel drug delivery systems. The treatment options at diagnosis are multimodal and include radiation therapy. Moreover, significant advances in understanding the molecular pathology of GBM and associated cell signaling pathways have opened opportunities for new therapies. Innovative treatment such as immunotherapy also gives hope for enhanced survival. The objective of this work was to collect and report the recent research findings to manage GBM. The present review includes existing novel drug delivery systems and therapies intended for managing GBM. Reported novel drug delivery systems and diverse therapies seem to be precise, secure, and relatively effective, which could lead to a new track for the obliteration of GBM.

Keywords: Glioblastoma multiforme; delivery systems; drug targets; epidemiology; pathogenesis; therapies.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms*
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Glioblastoma* / drug therapy
  • Humans