This project is game-changing because A/Prof. Huang’s lab have developed the world’s first-in-class designer peptide that disrupts communication between neurons and GBM cells, a crucial aspect often overlooked in brain cancer treatment. Notably, the peptide demonstrates efficacy even in chemo-resistant tumours, offering hope to patients with limited treatment options.

This project holds immense promise in offering hope and tangible benefits to people battling brain cancer. This approach not only inhibits tumour growth with minimal apparent toxicity but also holds potential in overcoming resistance to standard chemotherapy, providing renewed hope for patients facing limited treatment options. Additionally, by activating the immune system, the project offers the possibility of harnessing the body's own defences to fight the cancer, paving the way for more effective and comprehensive treatment strategies for individuals affected by GBM.

While immunotherapy has proven effective in treating various types of cancer, GBM remains a challenge due to its immunosuppressive environment. A novel peptide has been engineered to disrupt the EAG2 and Kvβ2 potassium channel complex, a key communication facilitator between neurons and GBM cells, showing strong effectiveness in treating GBM, including temozolomide-resistant GBMs. Interestingly, preliminary data suggests that this peptide not only reduces neoplastic cells but also remodels the immune microenvironment, increasing tumour-associated macrophages/microglia and T cells. Additionally, the treatment induces the expression of pro-inflammatory factors, suggesting an enhanced immune response.

The overarching aims in this grant includes:

Aim 1. Determine the impact of designer peptide treatment on GBM immune microenvironment.

Aim 2. Determine the therapeutic efficacy of combining designer peptide and immunotherapy.