The test involves coupling the toxin with a harmless carrier molecule to attack the glioblastoma multiforme tumor without destroying healthy brain cells surrounding it. This kind of tumor accounts for more than a third of the 17,500 cancerous brain tumors diagnosed annually in this country.
Average survival is only about a year for victims, despite surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.
Hall said laboratory tests indicate the toxin kills all of the tumor cells. The chemical, developed by the National Institutes of Health, will be tested on 30 patients nationwide who have not been helped by traditional treatment. Minnesota is one of nine universities participating in the test. K Fl gstad . Visit the Sales and advertising .for advertisement information.