Controlling the spread of high-risk liver tumors in children

High-risk hepatoblastoma dissemination control by oncogenic NRF2

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10886227

This study is looking at how certain cancer cells in the blood of children with hepatoblastoma, especially those with tougher cases, can make treatment less effective, and it hopes to find new ways to help these kids get better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10886227 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on hepatoblastoma, the most common liver tumor in children, particularly in high-risk cases where the disease has spread or is resistant to treatment. The study aims to understand how circulating tumor cells contribute to treatment failure and metastasis, which are major challenges in managing this cancer. By analyzing blood samples from patients, the researchers will identify and sequence these tumor cells to uncover the molecular mechanisms involved. The goal is to develop targeted therapies that can improve outcomes for affected children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with high-risk hepatoblastoma, particularly those with metastatic or treatment-resistant forms of the disease.

Not a fit: Patients with low-risk hepatoblastoma or those who have already received all available treatment options may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for high-risk hepatoblastoma, potentially improving survival rates for affected children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting circulating tumor cells in other cancers, suggesting that this approach may also be effective for hepatoblastoma.

Where this research is happening

Houston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.