Machine learning drives drug repurposing for neuroblastoma

Using machine learning and a large volume of data on genes and existing drugs, researchers at Lund University in Sweden have identified a combination of statins and phenothiazines that is particularly promising in the treatment of the aggressive form of neuroblastoma. The results from experimental trials showed slowing of tumour growth and higher survival rates.

The childhood cancer, neuroblastoma, affects around 5,500 children globally every year. Most of them fall ill before the age of five. Neuroblastoma is characterised by, among other things, tumours that are often resistant to drug treatment including chemotherapy. The disease exists in…