Abstract: Provided is a structure composed of a cell population comprising endothelial cells, astrocytes and pericytes, and a 3D (three dimensional) cell growth material within which the cell population is located. The structure has a TEER value of at least 450 ?/cm2. The cells of the structure may be derived from the brain. The cells may be human cells, and in particular may be primary derived non-immortalised cells. The structure is particularly suited for use in a model of the blood brain barrier, and the invention also provides such a model. The structure is located in a container, in which it separates a first chamber located on a first side of the structure and a second chamber located on a second side of the structure. The first and second chambers respectively contain first and second liquids in contact with first and second sides of the structure. The liquids mimic the brain extracellular fluid and the blood.

Abstract: Provided are aptamers able to bind to ligands associated with cancer cells. The ligands may particularly be associated with brain cancers, such as gliomas. The aptamers may be used therapeutically for the prevention and/or treatment of such cancers. Aptamers may be associated with anti-cancer agents, or with detection moieties. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treatment employing such aptamers.

Abstract: Provided are methods for detecting brain cancer in a subject, methods of predicting a clinical outcome in a patient with brain cancer, methods of monitoring the progression of brain cancer in a patient, and methods of grading a patient's brain cancer. The methods utilise various micro RNAs that the inventors have found to be useful in these manners.

Abstract: Provided are aptamers able to bind to ligands associated with cancer cells. The ligands may particularly be associated with brain cancers, such as gliomas. The aptamers may be used therapeutically for the prevention and/or treatment of such cancers. Aptamers may be associated with anti-cancer agents, or with detection moieties. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treatment employing such aptamers.