Advances in Pharmacological Strategies for Brain Tumors: Molecular Insights and Therapeutic Innovations

Abstract

Background: Cancer is a complex condition defined by the uncontrolled growth and proliferation of cells. Brain neoplasms, both primary and secondary, present a rising global health burden. Newer classification integrates key molecular markers; IDH mutation, 1p/19q co-deletion, and methylation promoter, enhancing diagnostic precision and guiding therapeutic targeted therapies. Objectives: This review provides comprehensive molecular insights into the multistep pathophysiology of brain tumours, highlighting early genomic and epigenomic alterations that drive malignancy and metastasis. Materials and Methods: Advancements in neuroimaging, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans, have significantly improved the early detection and precise localization of brain tumors. Moreover, molecular and genetic profiling has revolutionized the classification and prognostication of these tumors, enabling more personalized therapeutic strategies. Results: Treatment modalities for brain tumors include surgical resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, often employed in combination to maximize efficacy. Innovations in surgical techniques and radiotherapy, such as stereotactic radiosurgery, have enhanced the precision of tumor removal and minimized damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Despite these advancements, the prognosis for many brain tumor patients remains challenging, with high-grade gliomas, like glioblastoma multiforme, having particularly poor outcomes. Conclusion: Comprehensive literature collection was conducted using various scientific databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, focusing on the molecular mechanisms underlying tumorigenesis and therapeutic resistance, with the objective of identifying molecular therapeutic targets. Emerging diagnostic and therapeutic innovations, including liquid biopsy, MR-guided blood–brain barrier modulation, and nanotechnology-based drug delivery, are providing novel, targeted, and minimally invasive strategies for the effective management of central nervous system malignancies.