IDH Mutations and Inhibitors in Gliomas
- Gliomas are a common type of cancerous brain tumor in adults, and they often contain a mutation in a gene called IDH. This mutation causes the IDH enzyme to stop working properly, leading to tumor growth.
- Scientists have recently developed IDH inhibitors, or drugs that target this mutation and help slow down the tumor.
- One promising drug, Vorasidenib, has shown effectiveness in treating gliomas with IDH mutations, and is approved in treating in low grade, slow-growing tumors.
- Ongoing research is looking at other gene mutations to improve treatments and outcomes for patients with gliomas.
Scientists have discovered that certain changes in the DNA of cells, known as mutations, like the IDH mutation, can act as fuel, helping these tumors grow and spread. Recently, scientists have developed drugs to target this gene mutation, which can lead to better outcomes for patients and a new way to treat this disease.
The Types of Gliomas
Read MoreWhat is an IDH Mutation?
IDH (isocitrate dehydrogenase) is an enzyme in our cells that normally helps keep our cells healthy and make energy. When a mutation occurs in the IDH gene that codes for the enzyme, it can lead to cell changes that allow tumor cells to grow and proliferate uncontrollably. This type of mutation occurs in many gliomas. It is not until recently, however, that scientists have found ways to target this mutation to destroy cancer cells.
Targeting the IDH Mutation in Gliomas
For patients diagnosed with a glioma, molecular testing needs to be performed on the tumor to see if an IDH mutation is present. Fortunately, Dr. Alexandra Miller tells SurvivorNet that “molecular testing is covered by insurance for all patients who have gliomas.”
IDH inhibitors are medications designed to target the mutated IDH enzyme specifically. Fortunately, a new IDH inhibitor drug named Vorasidenib has been developed to treat IDH mutant gliomas. Dr. Alexandra Miller has even described this drug as a “huge breakthrough!”
She explains how this drug was found to be most effective in patients with what is called early-stage, low-grade disease, or grade two tumors, where the IDH mutation is thought to be very important in tumor growth.
The hope is that IDH inhibitor medications can control the tumor for years longer than we currently can.
Next Steps in Targeting Gene Mutations
In gliomas, the IDH mutation is thought to be a crucial part of their development. Unfortunately, gliomas often develop additional genetic changes or mutations as they grow. This helps them survive even after treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
With continued research, doctors hope to uncover more gene mutations that drive tumor growth, allowing for the development of new drugs that can further slow down or stop gliomas. Each new discovery brings us closer to more effective treatments, improving the outcomes for patients with this challenging disease.
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