Developing a new viral therapy for treating glioblastoma brain tumors
Official title: Next generation oncolytic virotherapy targeting AKT and ERK signaling in glioma
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-11087617 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new virus treatment for glioblastoma, a tough brain tumor, to see if it can help kill tumor cells and boost the immune system while working alongside current treatments, with the hope of reducing seizures and improving life for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | May 10, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $550,350 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS137577-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11087617 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with glioblastoma who may benefit from innovative treatment approaches.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not diagnosed with glioblastoma may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a novel oncolytic viral therapy specifically designed to target glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain tumor. The approach involves using a virus that can destroy tumor cells while also stimulating the body's immune response against the cancer. Researchers will evaluate the effectiveness of this therapy in combination with existing treatments like radiation and Temozolomide, and assess its potential to reduce seizure frequency in patients. By studying the interactions between the virus and the tumor environment, the goal is to enhance treatment outcomes and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from glioblastoma.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for glioblastoma patients, potentially extending survival and improving quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with oncolytic viral therapies in treating various cancers, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaur, Balveen — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Kaur, Balveen
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Next‑gen oncolytic virus therapy for glioblastoma targeting AKT and ERK
A new cancer therapy using an engineered oncolytic virus to fight glioblastoma by blocking AKT/ERK signals and boosting the body’s immune response, with potential to reduce seizures and improve quality of life.
-
Bone marrow immune cells and glioma progression in teens and young adults
A study in adolescents and young adults with brain tumors looks at how immune cells from bone marrow may influence the progression from low-grade to high-grade gliomas.
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How RNA Splicing Might Shape Glioma Cell States and Therapy Response
A small NIH-funded project will study how alternative RNA splicing influences glioma cell identities and treatment resistance in patient-derived cells.
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Liquid biopsy for monitoring high-grade glioma using patient-specific DNA junctions
A Mayo Clinic team tests a blood test that looks for unique tumor DNA pieces in glioblastoma patients to monitor disease without frequent scans.
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Deciphering how a brain cell pH helper influences glioma growth
A study is exploring whether a brain cell pH regulator (Slc4a4) affects the growth and blood vessel changes of malignant glioma to identify new angles for treatment.
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Predicting how gene therapy spreads in glioblastoma after surgery to improve treatment coverage
This project uses a gene therapy that helps radiation work better against glioblastoma and builds computer models to predict where the therapy reaches after surgical tumor removal.
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.