Undergraduate Health Sciences Student, Queen’s University

Generously funded by Lorraine Russell 

Supervisor: Dr. Teresa Purzner

Project title: “Investigating Glioblastoma Growth Kinetics, Stemness, and Patient Outcomes” 

Description of the project:

Glioblastoma (GB) is the most aggressive brain cancer in adults, characterized by an average survival of 15 months despite standard treatment with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy following the Stupp protocol. This treatment approach has remained largely unchanged for the past two decades, and limited progress is partly due to molecular differences between patients’ tumours, highlighting the need for personalized therapies in the future. Consequently, the purpose of this project is to investigate the growth kinetics and stemness of patient-derived GB cell lines, with a particular focus on their relationships to patient outcomes. Growth kinetics, quantified by measuring changes in the volume of GB cell clusters over time, and the expression of stemness-associated markers SOX2, pRb, and OLIG2, will be analyzed in relation to progression-free survival, defined as the length of time a patient lives without tumour growth or death. By linking tumour growth dynamics and stemness to patient outcomes, this study may provide a deeper understanding of the biological basis of variability in glioblastoma progression among patients. Furthermore, identifying these potential prognostic biomarkers could guide clinical decision-making and support the development of personalized treatment strategies, ultimately enhancing patient care and quality of life for individuals living with brain tumours.

Impact of receiving the award:

Being awarded a Brain Tumour Research Studentship means inspiration and impact. I am deeply honoured to receive this award and sincerely grateful to the generous donors whose support makes my research project possible. The BTFC’s and its donors’ commitment to advancing brain tumour research empowers students like me to contribute meaningfully to a field where progress is urgently needed.  

This studentship allows me to further explore glioblastoma by investigating how differences in cell growth kinetics and stemness- and proliferation-associated markers relate to patient outcomes. Through this work, I hope to better understand the biological factors underlying variability in prognosis and contribute to the development of more personalized treatment strategies.  

At this stage in my academic journey, the opportunity provided by the BTFC studentship is invaluable. It enables me to strengthen my research skills, deepen my understanding of translational science, and take an important step toward my goal of advancing neuro-oncology research alongside other scientists in my generation.  

Thank you to the donors for investing in students and in the future of brain tumour research. Your support inspires me to continue working toward improving patient outcomes and quality of life.