Ep12.13 Targeting the Infiltrative Edge of Glioblastoma: Biomarker Insights Into Early Tumor Recurrence

Abstract Glioblastoma, IDH-wildtype, WHO Grade 4 (GB), is the most common primary malignant brain tumor, accounting for approximately 50% of all gliomas. The current standard of care for GB consists of maximal safe surgical resection, with the aim of gross total or supramarginal resection whenever possible. Even when gross total resection (GTR) is achieved, a heterogeneous population of residual tumor cells typically persists along the infiltrative margins. These cells, characterized by distinct genetic, epigenetic, and microenvironmental profiles, serve as a reservoir for treatment-resistant subclones that can drive tumor recurrence. Although some studies have indicated that unresected residual cells in the peritumoral brain zone display distinct alterations compared to cells within the central tumor mass, only limited molecular analyses have been conducted. This study aims to analyze molecular profiles of distinct cell populations in the peritumoral infiltration zone using next-generation sequencing (NGS) to identify molecular features associated with early disease progression.