ZilentixAltona into the tecHHub Hamburg in Innovationspark Altona Innovationspark
Glioblastoma is the most common malignant form of brain tumor, and a definitive cure is not yet possible. The start-up company Zilentix has now developed a treatment method that promises a decisive breakthrough. This method uses transformed viruses as helpers.
The deadly characteristics of glioblastoma
Simply put, there are two main types of cells in the human brain. Nerve cells, also called neurons, are responsible for brain functions such as thinking. Glial cells form the architecture; they essentially hold the brain together. Glioblastoma develops from glial cells and quickly causes extensive damage to the brain. Symptoms range from headaches and visual disturbances to epileptic seizures and significant personality changes. This type of tumor is considered particularly malignant and is classified by the WHO as grade 4, the highest grade.
The chances of recovery are correspondingly poor. With current treatment methods, the average survival time is only 15 months. Treatment includes radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical removal of the tumor. This is where the main problem lies: the tumor cells spread deep into healthy tissue and are often difficult to identify completely. Furthermore, they cannot be completely removed without causing unacceptable damage to healthy brain cells. A complete cure is therefore not possible.
Interested? You can find more information on the website startupcity.hamburg
