Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM), also known as grade 4 astrocytoma, is the most common and aggressive type of primary brain tumor, accounting for 52% of all primary brain tumor cases and 20% of all intracranial tumors. Despite being the most prevalent form of primary brain tumor, GBM’s occur at only 2-3 cases per 100,000 people in Europe and

Treatment can involve chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery; all of which are acknowledged as palliative measures, meaning that they do not provide a cure. The five year survival rate of the disease has remained unchanged over the past 30 years, and stands at less than three percent. Even with complete surgical resection of the tumor, combined with the best available treatment, the survival rate for GBM remains very low.

CausesAlmost all cases of GBM are sporadic, without a familial predilection, although chromosomal aberrations such as PTEN mutation, MDM2 mutation, and p53 mutation are commonly seen in these tumors. Growth factor aberrant signaling associated with EGFR, and PDGF are also seen.

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