Clinical Research Directory

Blood Brain Barrier Dysfunction in Glioma and Epileptogenesis

Sponsor: University College, London

Summary

Gliomas are the most common and deadliest primary brain tumours in children and adults. Many people with glioma also develop epilepsy, which can be difficult to treat. Research suggests that inflammation in the brain and shared disease pathways may contribute to both glioma and epilepsy. Seizure-related electrical activity may also promote tumour growth and spread. This study aims to investigate the relationship between blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction, glioma and epilepsy. The BBB normally protects the brain by regulating the movement of substances from the blood into brain tissue. Increased leakage across the BBB may indicate inflammation and may contribute to changes in brain structure and function. Using a recently developed brain imaging technique, the study will measure BBB leakage in people with glioma, including those with and without tumour-related epilepsy, and in control participants without glioma or epilepsy. The researchers will compare imaging findings between these groups to investigate whether BBB leakage is associated with glioma and epilepsy, and whether it may be linked to structural changes in the brain. The study will also examine whether the extent of BBB leakage is associated with tumour subtype and grade, and whether this imaging technique could help identify and characterise brain tumours. Finally, the researchers will compare the new imaging technique with conventional contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess its ability to detect subtle BBB leakage. The findings may improve understanding of the relationship between BBB dysfunction, glioma and epilepsy, and help establish the potential value of advanced brain imaging in the diagnosis and assessment of gliomas.

Official title: BLOOD BRAIN BARRIER DYSFUNCTION IN GLIOMA AND EPILEPTOGENESIS

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