Dr. Marina Silva

Glioblastoma is the most aggressive primary brain tumor in adults and continues to present major therapeutic challenges. In recent years, it has become evident that tumor cells do not grow in isolation within the brain, establishing active communication with nervous system cells, including neurons. However, the electrophysiological mechanisms governing this interaction remain poorly understood.

This project aims to study bidirectional communication between neurons and glioblastoma cells using a fully human model. For this purpose, human neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and glioblastoma cells obtained from patients undergoing surgery will be utilized. The objective is to better understand the electrophysiological mechanisms regulating this communication and determine how neuronal activity can influence tumor cell behavior while, simultaneously, how glioblastoma can alter neuronal function.

By deepening knowledge of this interaction, the project seeks to identify novel mechanisms involved in disease progression and contribute to identifying potential intervention targets. It also aims to generate knowledge that can support future lines of research and the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies for glioblastoma.