0
0
May 1, 2025
Researchers from SAHMRI and Flinders University have uncovered how the decades-old antipsychotic drug trifluoperazine (TFP) could revolutionize treatment for glioblastoma (GBM), one of the most aggressive and treatment-resistant forms of brain cancer. Published in Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, their findings highlight TFP’s unique ability to disrupt cancer cells’ survival mechanisms, offering new hope for improving patient outcomes.
How It Works
TFP, FDA-approved since the 1950s for schizophrenia and anxiety, targets dopamine receptors on GBM cells and inhibits a critical protein called NUPR1, which drives treatment resistance. By attacking multiple pathways simultaneously, TFP prevents tumors from adapting to evade standard therapies like temozolomide.
“Most treatments fail because GBM cells shift states to escape attack. TFP’s multi-target approach makes it harder for the cancer to outmaneuver therapy,” said lead author Dr. Inushi De Silva.
Clinical Implications
Current GBM treatments offer a median survival of just 15 months. Professor Cedric Bardy, senior study author, emphasized the urgent need for adjunct therapies: “TFP’s predictable side effects and existing safety data could fast-track its repurposing. If trials confirm efficacy, this could become a game-changer.”
While a small 1990s trial explored TFP for GBM, poor design limited its impact. The team now aims to secure funding for robust clinical trials to validate TFP’s role in combination therapies.
The Road Ahead
Repurposing TFP could provide a cost-effective, rapid solution for GBM patients. “This isn’t a cure, but a promising tool to enhance existing treatments,” Dr. De Silva added.
Disclaimer
This article summarizes findings from a study published in peer-reviewed research. The drug discussed is not yet approved for brain cancer treatment, and further clinical trials are required to confirm its safety and efficacy. Always consult a healthcare professional before making medical decisions.
Source: Medical Xpress (2025). Old drug, new tricks: Why an anti-psychotic could help treat brain cancer. Retrieved May 1, 2025, from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-drug-anti-psychotic-brain-cancer.html.
Why It Matters: Glioblastoma affects thousands annually with limited treatment options. TFP’s potential as a dual-action therapy underscores the value of repurposing existing drugs to accelerate cancer breakthroughs.
