Team 16

NEUROMINDED: Alternating Electric Field for the Treatment of Glioblastoma Multiforme

Team Members: Alexis Kiraly, Lauren Lossner, Grace Lowor & Cassie Riggs

Team Mentors: Bradley Greger, PhD - SBHSE
Benjamin Hendrick, MD - Barrow Neurological Institute
Sara Mcbryan, MS - Barrow Neurological Institute
Dakota Graham, BSE - Barrow Neurological Institute

YouTube Link: View the video link below before joining the zoom meeting

Zoom Link: https://asu.zoom.us/j/85491271566

Abstract

The purpose of our project is to treat glioblastoma multiforme which is one of the most common and lethal primary central nervous system malignancies in adults, with only a 5-year patient survival rate of 5.0%. The current therapy is an external device that creates an alternating electric field using transducer arrays on patients’ scalps, which results in many adverse effects including severe skin irritation. Our IPDT will utilize intra-parenchymal electrodes that would produce strong electric fields within the neural tissue. This would thus focus the fields on decreasing the rate of cell proliferation in cancerous tissue more effectively than the current treatment, in addition to limiting the occurrence of the adverse effects associated with the surface therapy. We will develop an in vitro model of the brain that will simulate the strength of the intra-parenchymal electrical field and will output measurements of the alternating directionality in order to target the cancerous cells. Our product will optimize current target specifications of voltage, intensity, frequency, the number of electrodes needed as well as introduce quantifying the directionality of the electric field. We will carry this out by means of analysis in 3-D Slicer and MATLAB, as well as benchtop testing using pseudo CSF agar-agar solution. We will further validate these design concepts by the creation of technical feasibility models. Furthermore, complex testing will be conducted in order to denote target specifications for upholding the quality and efficiency of the alternating electric field, as well as remaining cost effective for the consumer. Ultimately, clinicians will use the intelligence gathered to properly stimulate the brain to reduce the growth of the tumor that will result in increasing the lifespan of those who suffer from glioblastoma multiforme.