Groundbreaking study challenges treatment protocols for glioblastoma in older adults

A groundbreaking study led by Dr Monika E. Hegi, MD, PhD and European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) headquarters team (Felix Oppong Msc, Dr Thierry Gorlia, PhD) reveals that older adults glioblastoma patients with truly unmethylated MGMT promoter do not benefit from temozolomide (TMZ) treatment, challenging current treatment protocols and paving the way for more personalised therapies.

The study reanalyzed data from the CE.6 and pooled Nordic/NOA-08 trials, involving 687 patients, to assess the impact of MGMT promoter methylation on TMZ treatment efficacy. Using a specific cutoff established through a pooled analysis of four clinical trials, the research confirmed that patients with truly unmethylated MGMT promoter derived no benefit from TMZ, whether administered alone or in combination with radiotherapy (RT). This finding underscores the necessity of using validated MGMT promoter methylation assays to accurately identify patients who will not benefit from TMZ, thereby reducing unnecessary toxicity and allowing for the exploration of more promising treatment options.

The significance of this study lies in its potential to transform the treatment landscape for older adults glioblastoma patients. By accurately identifying patients who will not benefit from TMZ, healthcare providers can avoid undue toxicity and focus on more effective treatment strategies. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) and other collaborating organisations emphasize the importance of stratified patient management to improve outcomes without compromising patient safety.

This study represents a pivotal moment in the treatment of glioblastoma, particularly for our older adults patients. By refining our approach to patient selection, we can significantly enhance treatment efficacy and patient quality of life."

Monika E. Hegi, PhD

In conclusion, these findings highlight the critical role of MGMT promoter methylation in guiding treatment decisions for glioblastoma, offering a path toward more personalised and effective therapies.