Proteins Associated with Brain Tumor Growth Offer New Avenues for Personalized Treatment

Researchers from the University of Plymouth have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the molecular drivers behind brain tumor development, focusing on a common tumor type called meningioma. By studying tumor samples in laboratory settings, the team identified a specific protein, known as ANXA3, that plays a crucial role in promoting the growth of these tumors. The discovery opens the possibility of developing targeted, less invasive therapies that could benefit patients with fewer side effects than traditional surgery and radiotherapy.

The research, led by Professor Oliver Hanemann and conducted by Ph.D. student Maryam Shah at Plymouth’s Brain Tumor Research Center of Excellence, involved analyzing various molecular subtypes of meningiomas. They found that inhibiting ANXA3 could slow or entirely halt tumor cell growth in lab experiments, indicating that this protein might serve as a promising therapeutic target.

Targeting ANXA3 could lead to a more personalized approach for treating meningiomas, especially for cases linked to mutations in the NF2 gene—the most common genetic cause of these tumors. Although more research is needed before such treatments become available, this development marks a crucial step toward non-invasive, targeted therapies.

Meningiomas, which affect approximately 2,790 people annually in England, are typically slow-growing and benign but can cause severe complications depending on their location and size. The study's findings contribute to the broader effort to understand tumor biology and develop precision medicine strategies.

In addition, recent studies have shown how the genetic makeup of meningiomas influences their interaction with immune cells. For example, the presence of M2-like macrophages in certain genetic and molecular tumor subtypes accelerates tumor growth by secreting molecules like IL-6, which are associated with tumor progression. These insights are paving the way for innovative immunotherapy approaches tailored to individual tumor profiles.

Overall, this research not only enhances our understanding of meningioma biology but also underscores the potential of targeted therapies based on specific protein and genetic markers, offering hope for more effective and less invasive treatment options in the future.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-key-proteins-linked-brain-tumor.html