Generously funded by Donors of Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada

Emma Martell – Postdoctoral Research Fellow at University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB

Supervisor: Chris Anderson, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba

Project title: “Breaking the connection: disrupting tumour-blood vessel communication in medulloblastoma”

Project summary:

Brain cancer research often focuses on studying tumour cells in isolation, but these cells interact with their surrounding environment, influencing their growth and response to treatment. This project aims to understand how Group 3 medulloblastoma (G3 MB), an aggressive childhood brain tumour, communicates with nearby blood vessel cells to promote tumour progression. G3 MB is a highly malignant brain tumour that spreads through the spinal cord and has a poor survival rate. Recent research suggests that tumour cells grow near immature blood vessels, forming a specialized environment that helps them maintain their aggressive, stem-like state. The tumour produces high levels of glutamate, a key brain metabolite, which may activate receptors on blood vessel cells, triggering the release of signals that support tumour growth. However, this process remains poorly understood. This study will investigate how tumour-derived glutamate interacts with blood vessel cells and whether blocking this communication can slow tumour progression. Using advanced cell and animal models, genetic modifications, and drug screening, we will identify new treatment strategies. Findings from this work could lead to the development of novel therapies that target tumour-blood vessel interactions, offering hope for improved outcomes in children with this devastating disease.

Impact of receiving award:

Being awarded the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada Research Fellowship means the world to me at this pivotal stage of my academic and professional journey. It enables me to investigate a critical and underexplored aspect of pediatric brain tumour biology that could lead to more effective treatments for children.

My research focuses on Group 3 medulloblastoma, an aggressive childhood brain tumour with limited treatment options and poor survival rates. While most studies examine tumour cells in isolation, my project investigates how these cells interact with nearby blood vessels. We believe the tumour releases metabolites that signal to blood vessel cells, activating pathways that support tumour growth and spread. By studying this communication and exploring how to interrupt it, I hope to uncover novel therapeutic strategies to help children facing this aggressive cancer.

I am deeply grateful to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada and its donors for making this research possible. Beyond providing essential funding, this fellowship supports my continued growth and training as I work toward becoming a leader in brain cancer research. With this support, I hope to advance the development of new treatments that can improve the lives of children and families affected by this devastating disease.