Finding new ways to overcome treatment resistance in brain tumors.

Targeting therapeutic resistance in glioblastoma

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VA BOSTON HEALTH CARE SYSTEM · NIH-11109403

This study is looking at a tough brain tumor called glioblastoma and aims to find better treatments by targeting a protein that helps the cancer resist current therapies, so that patients can have more effective options for fighting this disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVA BOSTON HEALTH CARE SYSTEM (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11109403 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a highly aggressive brain tumor that often resists current treatments. The study aims to understand the role of specific cancer stem cells in GBM that contribute to treatment failure and tumor recurrence. By targeting a protein called ABCB5, which is linked to drug resistance, the researchers hope to develop new therapeutic strategies that can improve patient outcomes. The approach involves blocking ABCB5 to inhibit the growth of these resistant cancer cells, potentially leading to more effective treatments for GBM.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme who have experienced limited success with current treatment options.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective therapies for glioblastoma, improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting cancer stem cells in other malignancies, suggesting that this approach may also be effective in glioblastoma.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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.