Blocking nerve–tumor signals that help glioblastoma grow
Targeting the neuronal microenvironment in glioblastoma
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11164790
Doctors are trying a brain‑penetrant drug called troriluzole in adults with IDH wild‑type glioblastoma to lower nerve-driven glutamate signals and slow tumor growth.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11164790 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
I have glioblastoma and researchers believe tumor cells connect with nearby neurons and use glutamate to drive growth. In lab and animal models they gave troriluzole, which lowered glutamate in the tumor environment and improved survival in mice. The team will test the drug in patient-derived tumor models and run a short pre‑surgery (window‑of‑opportunity) trial where patients take troriluzole before tumor removal so doctors can study treated tumor tissue. They will look at changes in glutamate signaling, tumor biology, and short‑term safety in adult patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (21+) with IDH wild‑type glioblastoma who are scheduled for surgical resection are the most likely candidates for the window‑of‑opportunity trial.
Not a fit: Patients who are children, have non–IDH wild‑type tumors, cannot safely take a short preoperative drug, or are medically unstable are unlikely to benefit from this trial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could slow glioblastoma growth by disrupting nerve‑driven signaling and guide new treatments that improve survival or quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical work and early clinical use of glutamate‑modulating drugs have shown promise, but applying troriluzole to disrupt neuron–glioblastoma connections is a relatively new and primarily preclinical approach.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MONJE-DEISSEROTH, MICHELLE — BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: MONJE-DEISSEROTH, MICHELLE
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.