Cancer researchers Brain tumors need fat for growth

New findings could lead to improved treatment of brain tumors
Researchers have now discovered that so-called brain tumor cells need fats to drive their growth. These findings could have a major impact on the way the most deadly disease is treated.

Brain tumors are a rare form of cancer that accounts for only about two percent of all cancers. Malignant tumors in the brain are very dangerous and difficult to treat. Unfortunately, such serious illnesses are often fatal. Researchers at the University of Newcastle have now discovered in an investigation that tumors of this type require fats in order to continue to grow. The physicians published the results of their study in the journal "Neuro-Oncology".

When people suffer from brain tumors, there is often little hope for them. Researchers now found that brain tumors need fats to keep growing. Through this realization, new treatment methods could be developed. (Image: BillionPhotos.com/fotolia.com)

Gliomas need fats to grow
The researchers from the University of Newcastle now studied the behavior of so-called gliomas. These are the most common form of malignant brain tumors. The new findings of the study seem to contradict the widespread belief that these cells are mainly nourished by sugar, the researchers explain. Apparently, the malignant disease needs fats to grow instead. Experts warn that brain tumors can affect anyone.

Can the growth of tumors slow down??
Blocking the ability to use fats could, according to the researchers, also slow down tumor growth. The new study looked at patient-donated tumor tissue and the diseased tissue of test mice. Different cells in our body also use different types of energy sources. Elizabeth Stoll of the Newcastle University Institute of Neuroscience.

Brain tumors need sugar instead of fats for energy
Many cells usually use sugar, but it turns out that these malignant brain cell tumors actually use fats to produce the energy they need, the authors explain. By blocking this ability, we could actually slow the growth of the tumor, scientists said. The findings of the study are very important because we urgently need new ways to intervene. Stoll.

What are gliomas and glial cells??
Glioma is a collective term for some types of tumors in the brain. These arise most often from so-called glial cells, which represent the supporting and nutrient tissue of nerve cells, explain the experts. The cells occur mainly in the brain, but can also be found in the area of ​​the spinal cord and the cranial nerves

So far with a malignant glioma little reason for hope
Patients with malignant glioma are currently receiving a very poor prognosis. Physicians are therefore urgently looking for new interventions to increase the survival and quality of life of those affected. Stoll. Certain populations also appear to be at greater risk of developing the disease. Recently, another study found that academics are more likely to develop brain tumors.

More than 500 children develop brain tumors every year
More than 500 children and adolescents develop a brain tumor every year. Of those affected, more than half (58 percent) die within one year, say the authors. In comparison, breast cancer rates are five percent, 35 percent leukemia and seven percent prostate cancer, the experts add. In view of the low chances of survival, new treatment options for malignant brain tumors are urgently needed and the connection with the required fats could provide an approach for future therapies. (As)