Glioblastoma Foundation Expands Scientific Leadership as It Prepares to Accept Patient Samples for Universal Genomic Testing

Foundation to offer universal genomic testing for glioblastoma patients

DURHAM, NC / ACCESS Newswire / December 18, 2025 / Today, the Glioblastoma Foundation announced the appointment of three distinguished scientific leaders to the Genomic Laboratory team as the Foundation completes validation of its state-of-the-art genomic testing program and prepares to accept patient samples in the coming weeks.

Ferrin Wheeler, PhD, FACMG, has joined the Glioblastoma Foundation as Laboratory Director of the CLIA-certified clinical genomic testing laboratory. Dr. Wheeler brings extensive expertise in molecular genetics and leadership of high-complexity laboratories. Under her direction, the Foundation will ensure that each genomic test meets the highest standards of analytical accuracy and clinical utility to improve patient outcomes.

In addition, two world-renowned neuro-oncologists have joined the Foundation’s Scientific Advisory and Molecular Tumor Board:

• Mark Gilbert, MD – former Chief of the Neuro-Oncology Branch at the National Cancer Institute and a leading authority in glioblastoma research and clinical trial design.

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  Glenn Lesser, MD – Professor of Neuro-Oncology at Wake Forest University and a key investigator on multiple national brain cancer studies.

“The addition of Drs. Wheeler, Gilbert, and Lesser marks an important milestone for the Glioblastoma Foundation,” said Gita Kwatra, PharmD, MBA, Chief Executive Officer. “Their combined expertise will ensure that every genomic test performed contributes meaningfully to improving care for glioblastoma patients. Importantly, these tests will be available to all patients, irrespective of their insurance status or ability to pay.”

Glioblastoma is the most aggressive type of tumor that arises in the brain and one of the most lethal forms of brain cancer. The Glioblastoma Foundation was created to transform the standard of care for glioblastoma by supporting the development of effective therapies.

The Glioblastoma Foundation’s clinical genomic testing program includes three complementary assays designed to provide a complete picture of every glioblastoma patient’s tumor:

1. Whole-genome DNA methylation profiling to diagnose and classify brain tumors with precision.

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   Comprehensive genomic profiling using next-generation sequencing to identify key mutations and actionable targets.

3. Gene fusion detection to uncover critical alterations that may inform treatment.

The Glioblastoma Foundation will begin accepting patient samples for genomic testing in early 2026, representing a major step forward in the fight against the most aggressive form of brain cancer.

About Glioblastoma Foundation
Glioblastoma Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving treatment options and outcomes for people diagnosed with glioblastoma. Through its clinical genomic testing laboratory the Foundation provides cutting-edge molecular testing that empowers patients and physicians with personalized treatment insights. The Glioblastoma Foundation also supports innovative research, patient services, and advocacy initiatives that bring hope to families affected by glioblastoma.

Learn more at www.glioblastomafoundation.org.

Contact: info@glioblastomafoundation.org | 919-402-1775

SOURCE: Glioblastoma Foundation

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