Malignant glioma remodeling of neuronal circuits: therapeutic opportunities and repurposing of antiepileptic drugs.

in Trends in cancer by Cesar Nava Gonzales, Mikias B Negussie, Saritha Krishna, Vardhaan S Ambati, Shawn L Hervey-Jumper

TLDR

  • The study is about using antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) to treat a type of brain tumor called diffuse gliomas. The study found that targeting aberrant neuronal activity is a promising way to treat this type of tumor, but more research is needed to figure out the best way to do this. The study also found that clinical biomarkers may help identify patients who are most likely to benefit from AEDs, but more research is needed to validate these biomarkers and develop personalized treatment plans. The study highlights the need for more research on the best timing and dosing strategies for AEDs.

Abstract

Tumor-associated epilepsy is the most common presenting symptom in patients diagnosed with diffuse gliomas. Recent evidence illustrates the requirement of synaptic activity to drive glioma proliferation and invasion. Class 1, 2, and 3 evidence is limited regarding the use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) as antitumor therapy in combination with chemotherapy. Furthermore, no central mechanism has emerged as the most targetable. The optimal timing of AED regimen remains unknown. Targeting aberrant neuronal activity is a promising avenue for glioma treatment. Clinical biomarkers may aid in identifying patients most likely to benefit from AEDs. Quality evidence is needed to guide treatment decisions.

Overview

  • The study focuses on the use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) as antitumor therapy in combination with chemotherapy for diffuse gliomas, specifically targeting aberrant neuronal activity. The hypothesis being tested is whether AEDs can effectively target aberrant neuronal activity and improve outcomes in patients with diffuse gliomas. The methodology used for the experiment includes a review of existing literature on the topic, with a focus on Class 1, 2, and 3 evidence. The study aims to provide guidance on the optimal timing of AED regimen and identify clinical biomarkers that may aid in identifying patients most likely to benefit from AEDs. The primary objective of the study is to provide evidence-based recommendations for the use of AEDs in the treatment of diffuse gliomas.

Comparative Analysis & Findings

  • The study compares the outcomes observed under different experimental conditions or interventions, specifically the use of AEDs in combination with chemotherapy for diffuse gliomas. The results show that targeting aberrant neuronal activity is a promising avenue for glioma treatment. However, the study found limited evidence regarding the use of AEDs as antitumor therapy in combination with chemotherapy, and no central mechanism has emerged as the most targetable. The optimal timing of AED regimen remains unknown. The study suggests that clinical biomarkers may aid in identifying patients most likely to benefit from AEDs.

Implications and Future Directions

  • The study's findings highlight the need for quality evidence to guide treatment decisions for diffuse gliomas. Targeting aberrant neuronal activity is a promising avenue for glioma treatment, but more research is needed to identify the most effective and safe interventions. The study suggests that clinical biomarkers may aid in identifying patients most likely to benefit from AEDs, but further research is needed to validate these biomarkers and develop personalized treatment plans. The study also highlights the need for more research on the optimal timing of AED regimen and the most effective dosing strategies. Future research should focus on developing novel interventions that target aberrant neuronal activity and improve outcomes in patients with diffuse gliomas.
Read Full Article