Tumor recurrence almost invariably occurs and poses one of the most difficult treatment challenges in oncology. Treatment failure is ascribed to high infiltrative capacity of tumor cells, marked chemo- and radioresistance, a prounounced immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and a vast cellular heterogeneity. Consequently, our collective research efforts within the LUCC network are aimed at unraveling mechanisms of resistance to treatment and in improving current clinical regimens as well as in the development of novel effective treatments.  Focus within the network is also on improving treatment of pediatric malignant brain tumors in collaboration with national and international groups.

Research thus spans from cutting-edge molecular biology to ongoing clinical studies. A seamless interaction between preclinical researchers at all levels with clinically active oncologist, neurologists neuroradiologist and neurosurgeons directs the basic scientific preclinical work and facilitate implementing the results from basic research into clinical trials. Not least an important part of the LUCC brain, spinal cord and pituitary tumor network work is the interaction and facilitation of contacts with national and international researchers and clinicians working on brain, spinal cord and pituitary tumors. 

The purpose of the LUCC-Brain, spinal cord & pituitary network is to:

• provide an excellent local environment for interactions and collaboration between research groups and clinicians working on brain, spinal cord and pituitary tumors.
• stimulate interaction and facilitate contacts with national and international researchers and clinicians working with CNS tumors.
• facilitate implementing results from basic research into clinical trials.

To learn more, contact the network leaders Alexander or Johan, or watch Alexander Pietras talking about glioblastom research (in Swedish).