Recent advances in the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme by inhibiting angiogenesis and using nanocarrier systems

Abstract

Abstract Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a grade IV astrocytoma, is the most aggressive and formidable brain malignancy. It has a predictably poor prognosis and unique medical challenges. The high recurrence of GBM in clinical practice leads to an average survival of only 12–18 months after diagnosis. One of the critical issues in GBM treatment is the physiological restriction of antitumor drugs from traversing the blood–brain barrier (BBB). In recent years, the development of nanoparticles (NPs) has enhanced the ability of pharmaceuticals to cross the BBB for GBM treatment. In addition, the fabrication and design of nanoparticulate carriers determine the category of medicinal substance that the particles can carry, such as a high molecular weight hydrophobic/hydrophilic drug, a gene segment, or an imaging contrast agent. Surface modification of NPs also ameliorates the biocompatibility of numerous antitumor remedies. Thus, the capability of nanocarriers provides a high likelihood of managing GBM, by means of gene therapy, chemotherapy, anti-angiogenesis therapy or diagnosis. This review focuses on GBM treatment by inhibiting angiogenesis and using nanocarriers. Development of innovative drug delivery systems will also be highlighted in various aspects, including effective permeation of the BBB, and may provide inspiration for salvage chemotherapy and adjuvant care of patients with GBM in future clinical application.