Brain tumors, particularly glioblastoma (GBM) and meningioma, pose significant treatment
challenges due to their aggressive progression, high recurrence rates, and resistance to
conventional therapies. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) and blood-tumor barrier (BTB) further limit
the efficacy of systemic chemotherapy by restricting drug delivery to the tumor site. Despite
advancements in surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, long-term survival rates for
malignant brain tumors, especially GBM, remain low.
Biodegradable wafer-based drug delivery systems have emerged as a promising solution to these
challenges. Implanted directly into the tumor cavity following surgical resection, these wafers
provide localized and sustained drug release, enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing
systemic toxicity. Gliadel®, a carmustine (BCNU)- loaded polymer wafer, was the first FDA-
approved intracranial chemotherapy implant, demonstrating improved survival outcomes in GBM
patients. However, drawbacks such as rapid drug diffusion and systemic clearance have driven the
development of advanced polymeric systems, including temozolomide (TMZ)-loaded wafers anddoxorubicin-polymeric wafers, which enable controlled drug release and improved tumor
targeting.
Recent advancements in biodegradable electronic devices, such as wireless drug delivery implants
and nanomedicine-based multi-drug delivery systems, have further revolutionized localized brain
tumor therapy. These innovations show promise in enhancing treatment efficacy, overcoming drug
resistance, and reducing tumor recurrence.
This review explores the role of biodegradable wafers in targeted brain tumor therapy, focusing on
their mechanisms, benefits, challenges, and future directions. The integration of personalized
medicine, advanced imaging techniques, and genetic profiling will be critical for optimizing these
therapies. Ongoing research and technological innovations in wafer-based drug delivery systems
hold great potential for improving survival rates and quality of life for patients with brain tumors.
Keywords: Brain tumour, Glioblastoma, meningioma, blood -brain barrier, blood - tumor barrier, biodegradable wafers
Publication date: 01/11/2026
https://www.ijbpas.com/pdf/2026/November/MS_IJBPAS_2026_10584.pdf
Download PDF
https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2026/15.11.10584
