Developing a new immunotherapy for treating neuroblastoma in children

Toward Translation of an Immunotherapeutic Nanomedicine for Neuroblastoma

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University · NIH-10924063

This study is exploring new treatments for kids with advanced neuroblastoma by using tiny particles that help the immune system fight cancer more effectively, with the hope of making these therapies safer and more helpful for young patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10924063 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating innovative therapies for children suffering from advanced neuroblastoma, a challenging pediatric cancer. The approach involves using specialized nanoparticles that activate the immune system to better target and destroy cancer cells. By optimizing these nanoparticles and testing them in mouse models, the researchers aim to enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy while minimizing side effects. The ultimate goal is to translate these findings into clinical applications that can benefit young patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with advanced, high-risk neuroblastoma.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage neuroblastoma or those who have not been diagnosed with neuroblastoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and less toxic treatment options for children with neuroblastoma.

How similar studies have performed: While immunotherapy has shown promise in other cancers, the specific approach using STING-activating nanoparticles for neuroblastoma is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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 2026-06-13 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.