Neuroblastoma accounts for 10% of childhood cancer cases and an astonishing 15% of cancer fatalities in children. Primary tumours typically arise in the adrenal glands often metastasising to major organs leading to a heterogeneous range of symptoms include abdominal distension, generalised skeletal pain, weight loss, malaise, anaemia, fever and irritability. Treatment includes surgery and chemotherapy, but prognosis is poor with a 50% fatality rate in children diagnosed aged >1.
The airborne fungus Aspergillus fumigatus secretes a vast range of metabolic products that show potent anti-cancer properties including paclitaxel/taxol already being exploited clinically for a range of cancers. Of interest, TNP470, a fumagillin analogue was shown to prevent neuroblastoma angiogenesis and gliotoxin another metabolite was shown to inhibit neuroblastoma growth. These promising findings warrant further research into the therapeutic potential of Aspergillus.
Grant Award – Kidscan Student Placement (2019 – 2020)
Funding Award – £2000.00
Funding Awarded to – Dr Sara Namvar
Research Location – University of Salford
Lead Researcher – Dr Sara Namvar
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