Research into brain tumours has been neglected
During the last few decades, survival rates for many cancers have undergone a transformation thanks to the investment made in research. Brain tumour research, by comparison, has been shockingly underfunded. As a result, fewer than one in five patients survive more than five years after their diagnosis.
There are over 120 different types of brain tumour. Here at the University of Plymouth’s Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence, we’re determined to improve the treatment and outcomes of brain tumours.
Official charity partnership
In 2014, the University was officially recognised by, leading charity Brain Tumour Research as one of only three centres of excellence nationally for brain tumour research. Our long-running partnership aims to help establish, retain and grow world-class research teams. Learn more about our research.
Your support could help fund a PhD studentship. Meet Laurien, the latest addition to our team:
“In the past I have only ever worked in laboratories where everyone is working on similar research... Here, there are people working on completely different kinds of research, but we find we can assist each other. When I’m stuck, there’s always someone to help me move forward.”
Laurien is working on a methodology to create 3D cell cultures for research. Yielding more accurate results, 3D cell cultures are now widely used in research. Thanks to the donations we have received, a way of growing, storing and using these cells for research into slow growing brain tumours is in sight. However, there’s still much more we need to do.
The impact of our research
Professor Oliver Hanemann and his team uniquely specialise in slow growing tumours. They want to know how these tumours grow, why most become cancerous and how to stop them. Currently there’s no cure. Professor Hanemann’s research has a ‘bench to bedside approach’, which means moving through the stages – from the laboratory into trials with patients – as quickly as possible.
“Historically, brain tumour research has received just 1% of all cancer research funding in the UK. As a result, survival rates have barely changed for decades. Progress is urgently needed.” Professor Oliver Hanemann
Email giving@plymouth.ac.uk to register your interest and we’ll provide you with details about opportunities to make a difference.
You can also contact us on +44 1752 588000.
