Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and lethal primary brain tumor. Identifying blood biomarkers that reflect the tumor's status is a major unmet need for optimal clinical management. 5-ALA (5-Aminolevulinic Acid) administration leads to the accumulation of fluorescent Protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) in GBM cells, allowing identification during surgery. This project aims to leverage 5-ALA induced fluorescence to maximize the informational power of plasma liquid biopsy as a tool for diagnosis, post-treatment follow-up, and as a prognostic tool in patients with GBM.
Patient aged 18 years or older
Diagnosis of supratentorial glioblastoma at its first occurrence (Grade 4, WHO 2021), confirmed through histological analysis, in a brain area that is accessible for surgical removal.
Ability of the patient to give informed consent.
Suitability for surgery with fluorescence guidance using 5-ALA.
Presence of other systemic tumors.
Known allergic sensitivity or contraindications to gadolinium.
Contraindications to MRI, such as the presence of non-compatible implanted devices.
Significantly compromised renal function (eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73 m²), and/or patients undergoing dialysis.
Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta
Lead sponsor
University of Milan
Collaborator
Università degli Studi del Piemonte Orientale Amedeo Avogadro
Collaborator