A Site-Specific MiniAp4-Trastuzumab Conjugate Prevents Brain Metastasis.

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are changing cancer treatments. However, the presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the blood-tumor barrier (BTB) limits the use of mAbs to treat brain cancer or brain metastasis. Molecules that hijack endogenous transport mechanisms on the brain endothelium (brain shuttles) have been shown to increase the transport of large molecules and nanoparticles across the BBB.

Vibrational fiber photometry: label-free and reporter-free minimally invasive Raman spectroscopy deep in the mouse brain.

Optical approaches to monitor neural activity are transforming neuroscience, owing to a fast-evolving palette of genetically encoded molecular reporters. However, the field still requires robust and label-free technologies to monitor the multifaceted biomolecular changes accompanying brain development, aging or disease. Here, we have developed vibrational fiber photometry as a low-invasive method for label-free monitoring of the biomolecular content of arbitrarily deep regions of the mouse brain in vivo through spontaneous Raman spectroscopy.

Potential of ex vivo organotypic slice cultures in neuro-oncology.

Over recent decades, in vitro and in vivo models have significantly advanced brain cancer research; however, each presents distinct challenges for accurately mimicking in situ conditions. In response, organotypic slice cultures have emerged as a promising model recapitulating precisely specific in vivo phenotypes through an ex vivo approach. Ex vivo organotypic brain slice models can integrate biological relevance and patient-specific variability early in drug discovery, thereby aiming for more precise treatment stratification.

Integrating priorities at the intersection of cancer and neuroscience.

Cancer neuroscience is a rapidly growing multidisciplinary field that conceptualizes tumors as tissues fully integrated into the nervous system. Recognizing the complexity and challenges in this field is of fundamental importance to achieving the goal of translational impact for cancer patients. Our commentary highlights key scientific priorities, optimal training settings, and roadblocks to translating scientific findings to the clinic in this emerging field, aiming to formulate a transformative and cohesive path forward.