The Tessa Jowell BRAIN MATRIX is a major UK-wide programme designed to improve how we understand and treat gliomas, a type of brain tumour. The programme includes a large “Platform Study” and future clinical trials that will test new treatments.

This summary describes the Platform Study, which is the first and essential part of the programme.

Why is this study needed?

Gliomas are the most common type of brain tumour that start in the brain itself. They can be very difficult to treat because:

• They grow within delicate brain tissue, making it hard to remove them completely with surgery.

• Some cancer cells may be left behind and later grow back.

• The brain has natural protective barriers that can prevent medicines from reaching the tumour.

Most patients are currently treated with a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, but these treatments are not always effective for long. This is why new and better treatments are urgently needed.

What is the aim of the BRAIN MATRIX Platform Study?

The main goal is to improve how accurately and quickly doctors can diagnose the exact type of glioma a patient has.

To do this, the study will:

• Build a large, secure database of information about patients, their tumours, treatments, and outcomes.

• Develop the laboratory systems needed for advanced molecular testing—this involves studying the tumour’s genetic makeup to understand it in much more detail.

• Create a nationwide network of expert hospitals (“hubs”) that specialise in diagnosing and treating brain tumours.

Once this infrastructure is in place, it will become much easier to launch clinical trials that test targeted treatments—treatments chosen specifically because they match the genetic features of each patient’s tumour.

This means future patients may be able to receive treatments that are more personal, more precise, and hopefully more effective.

Who can take part?

Gliomas can occur in people of any age, and it is often difficult to know exactly what type of glioma someone has until after surgery.
For this reason, the BRAIN MATRIX Platform Study is designed to include a wide range of patients who are suspected to have, or are diagnosed with, a glioma.

Why is this important for patients?

Taking part in the Platform Study may help:

• Provide a more accurate and detailed diagnosis

• Support doctors in choosing the most appropriate treatment

• Contribute to research that will shape future clinical trials

• Improve outcomes for future patients with gliomas

Overall, the Tessa Jowell BRAIN MATRIX programme aims to improve survival and quality of life for everyone affected by gliomas.