Exploring a new treatment for glioblastoma using DGKalpha inhibition
Official title: Novel immunotherapeutic potential of DGKalpha inhibition for glioblastoma
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10990519 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to treat glioblastoma, a tough type of brain cancer, by using a medication called ritanserin to help boost the immune system's fight against the cancer, and it’s being tested in mice to see how it works with other treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $359,097 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126265-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10990519 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma who have limited treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not diagnosed with glioblastoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treating glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain cancer, by inhibiting a specific enzyme called Diacylglycerol kinase-α (DGKα). The study aims to repurpose an existing medication, ritanserin, which has shown promise in enhancing immune responses against cancer cells. By using mouse models, the researchers will explore how DGKα inhibition affects immune cells like macrophages and microglia, and how it can be combined with other therapies to improve treatment outcomes. This innovative approach could lead to more effective therapies for patients suffering from this challenging condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new, more effective treatment option for patients with glioblastoma.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting DGKα for cancer treatment, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Purow, Benjamin W. — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Purow, Benjamin W.
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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.