Creating a pig model to study brain tumors

Development of a pre-clinical syngeneic pig glioma model for research and translational studies

['FUNDING_R21'] · METHODIST HOSPITAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE · NIH-10973542

This study is using mini-pigs to learn more about glioblastoma, a tough type of brain cancer, so researchers can find better ways to treat it and understand how surgery might affect tumor growth.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMETHODIST HOSPITAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10973542 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new model using mini-pigs to better understand glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer that is currently incurable. By using mini-pigs, which have brain structures similar to humans, researchers aim to investigate how surgical trauma affects tumor development and the unique properties of tumor cells. This model will allow for more accurate surgical and imaging studies, which are difficult to perform in traditional rodent models. The goal is to uncover critical insights that could lead to improved treatments for glioblastoma patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glioblastoma who are seeking innovative treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not diagnosed with glioblastoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to significant advancements in the treatment and management of glioblastoma, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of animal models in cancer research is common, this specific approach using mini-pigs for glioblastoma is novel and has not been extensively tested.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.