From VEGF inhibitors to PARP Inhibitors: Advancements in targeted therapies for Glioblastoma

Abstract

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive primary brain tumor that poses significant treatment challenges and has a poor prognosis, with a median survival of around 15 months despite existing therapies. This review examines recent advancements in targeted therapies, specifically highlighting Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) inhibitors and Poly (ADP-ribose) Polymerase (PARP) inhibitors. VEGF inhibitors, such as bevacizumab & ramucirumab, target tumor angiogenesis by blocking essential signaling pathways, which help to limit tumor growth and proliferation. PARP inhibitors, including rucaparib, olaparib, & talazoparib, disrupt DNA repair mechanisms, leading to synthetic lethality in tumor cells with deficiencies in homologous recombination. Integrating these targeted therapies into treatment regimens holds promise for improving patient outcomes. Researchers are advancing personalized and more effective treatment strategies by leveraging a deeper understanding of glioblastoma's molecular landscape. Ongoing exploration of combination therapies and biomarker identification is crucial for enhancing the management of this challenging disease.