New glioblastoma target identified

DURHAM, N.C., April 6 (UPI) -- U.S. scientists say they have identified a receptor on the surface of cells that might provide a new target for treating brain tumors known as glioblastomas.

Duke University researchers led by Madan Kwatra said the neurokinin 1 receptor, which may be expressed in all human glioblastoma cells, might prove to be an appropriate target for therapies aimed at treating brain tumors.

"There are some previously identified cellular targets for therapy which are now being investigated in clinical trials, and the findings from our research represent potential alternate or complementary targets that may help patients facing this devastating disease," said Kwatra. "Patients generally die from the disease within 18 months of glioblastoma diagnosis."

The results of the research appear in the March 30 online edition of the Journal of Neurochemistry.