Pharmacological strategies for glioblastoma: Current therapies, challenges, and emerging targets.

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive and lethal primary brain tumor in adults. These tumors are characterized by rapid progression, elevated heterogeneity, and poor prognosis. Despite the advancement of molecular biology techniques and therapies available to treat cancer, median survival remains approximately 15 months. The poor prognosis highlights the urgent need for more effective therapeutic strategies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the state of the art in the pharmacological treatments for GBM, including standard chemotherapeutic agents, the molecular mechanisms underlying drug resistance, and the role of the blood-brain barrier in limiting drug delivery. We discuss recent advances in targeted therapies and immunotherapeutic approaches. Particularly important are the combination strategies as promising insights for enhancing therapeutic efficacy. Finally, we report clinical trials and future directions in the development of personalized treatments fundamental to overcoming the complex challenges posed by GBM.