How immune cells can be activated to fight brain tumors

Regulation of Macrophage- and Microglia-mediated STING Signaling in Glioblastoma

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10914797

This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the brain can be boosted to fight glioblastoma, a tough type of brain cancer, especially after treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, and it hopes to find new ways to help patients feel better and live longer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10914797 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of immune cells, specifically macrophages and microglia, in glioblastoma, a type of aggressive brain cancer. It focuses on understanding how these cells can be activated by a molecule called cGAMP, which is produced in response to chemotherapy and radiation. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms that suppress the immune response in glioblastoma and how inhibiting a specific protein, PP2A, can enhance the immune response against tumors. By exploring these pathways, the research seeks to develop novel therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with glioblastoma who have undergone standard treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not eligible for standard glioblastoma treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the body's immune response against glioblastoma, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in activating immune responses in tumors using similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Conditions Brain Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.