The M3 Approach

Innovative and collaborative approaches are essential to effectively manage and treat pediatric brain tumors. Traditional research methods, often conducted in isolated silos, struggle to capture the complexity of these diseases. However, the emergence of the M3 Approach—multi-modal, multi-omic, and multi-disciplinary—offers promising avenues for advancing pediatric brain tumor research.

Challenges and the Need for Change

In pediatric brain tumor research, the landscape has long been fragmented, with researchers focusing narrowly on singular aspects of biology. This compartmentalization hampers our ability to grasp the full complexity of these diseases. Traditional methods lack the holistic perspective needed to unravel the intricate workings of children's brain tumors.

"People were working in silos, research was slower, and potential breakthroughs were slipping through the cracks." —Gerri Trooskin, Director of Partnerships at Children’s Brain Tumor Network (CBTN)

In the traditional approach, studies tend to concentrate on individual components, such as genes or proteins, often overlooking the interplay between different biological systems. Neglecting these connections impedes our understanding of how tumors develop and behave, hindering the quest for effective treatments.

The M3 Approach: A Collaborative Vision

At the helm of collaborative innovation stands a newly conceptualized idea CBTN calls “The M3 Approach.” This dynamic approach brings together three crucial elements: multi-modal (integrating data from various measurement techniques), multi-omic(analyzing multiple molecular layers within a living system), and multi-disciplinary (collaborating across diverse scientific disciplines) strategies, aiming to break down traditional silos and foster interdisciplinary collaboration.

A group of scientists at CBTN aims to harness the M3 approach to accelerate discoveries in pediatric brain tumor research. This working group includes experts in cancer biology, genomics, proteomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, epigenetics, immunotherapy, radiology, neurooncology, and neurosurgery. By leveraging their collective expertise, the group hopes to explore innovative methods and approaches, unraveling the complexities of pediatric brain tumors and overcoming barriers to improve patient care.

Leveraging Data and Specimens for Collaboration

Central to the success of the M3 Approach is a robust pediatric brain tumor dataset, CBTN's Pediatric Brain Tumor Atlas (PBTA). The PBTA is the world's largest collection of childhood brain tumor data and is available to researchers worldwide for real-time access. The PBTA data contains more than 30 different subtypes of childhood brain tumors, representing more than 1,000 unique research subjects. Created as a multi-center, multi-omic effort, the CBTN's PBTA includes matched tumor-normal whole genome sequencing (WGS), tumor RNA-Seq, methylation, and proteomics, as well as longitudinal clinical data, images (MRIs, histology slides images, radiology reports), and pathology reports. This comprehensive dataset empowers researchers to delve into new realms of inquiry, unlocking insights into the biology of pediatric brain tumors. This multi-modal, multi-omic dataset provides a holistic understanding of tumor biology. Moreover, it lays the foundation for collaborative endeavors, facilitating accelerated advancements in treatment strategies and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across different scientific disciplines.

Integrating data from diverse "omics" disciplines—genomics, proteomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and epigenomics—presents a holistic understanding of pediatric brain tumors. This multi-faceted approach illuminates complex patterns and interactions, unveiling potential targets for therapy that may have eluded traditional analyses.

"By integrating data from genomics, proteomics, and other omics disciplines, we're able to paint a more comprehensive picture of pediatric brain tumors and identify potential targets for therapy." —Mateusz Koptyra

Early Success Stories: Projects and Initiatives

Early endeavors within the M3 framework focus on the molecular categorizing of pediatric brain tumors and developing tailored therapies. By categorizing tumors based on their molecular profiles, researchers can personalize treatment approaches, optimizing efficacy while minimizing adverse effects.

An early example of success within this approach is the work of Dr. Anahita Fathi Kazerooni, whose multi-omic study unveiled novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for pediatric brain tumors. Her groundbreaking research, presented at the 2023 Society for Neuro-Oncology Annual Meeting, underscores the power of the M3 Approach in driving transformative discoveries.

A Commitment to Progress

As collaborations evolve and discussions progress, optimism is growing regarding the innovative solutions and insights that may emerge, ultimately benefiting children and families grappling with a children's brain tumor diagnosis. While specific outcomes of the M3 Approach are yet to unfold, the overarching goal remains unwavering: to improve outcomes for children and families affected by these challenging diseases.

The M3 Approach paves the way for unprecedented progress in the fight against pediatric brain tumors by embracing the principles of multi-modal, multi-omic, and multi-disciplinary collaboration.

Next...
As we explore innovative approaches to childhood cancer research, we dive into the transformative potential of “Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI).” Stay tuned for another article, where we unravel how this leading-edge technology is reshaping the landscape of pediatric oncology, offering new avenues for diagnosis, treatment, and discovery. You can also learn more about what we’re doing in the M3 space by attending our CBTN Summit this fall.