Developing new treatments for glioblastoma by targeting ATG4B

Targeting ATG4B to Treat Glioblastoma

NIH-funded research Northwestern University · NIH-10605245

This study is looking for new ways to treat glioblastoma, a tough brain tumor, by developing special medicines that target a protein called ATG4B, which could help improve survival and quality of life for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10605245 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain tumor with a poor prognosis, and aims to develop new treatments by targeting a specific protease called ATG4B. The approach involves creating inhibitors for ATG4B through a collaborative process that includes optimizing existing compounds, assessing their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, and testing their effectiveness in combination with standard therapies. Patients may benefit from innovative treatment options that could improve survival rates and quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with glioblastoma who are seeking new 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 new therapies that significantly improve outcomes for patients with glioblastoma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in cancer treatment, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.