How mitochondria adapt to stress in brain cancer cells

Mitochondria electron transport chain complexes adaptative responses to cellular stress

NIH-funded research University of Iowa · NIH-10862710

This study is looking at how glioblastoma cells become resistant to radiation treatment by exploring changes in their energy-producing structures, which could help find better ways to make radiation therapy work more effectively for patients with this type of brain cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Iowa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10862710 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how glioblastoma cells develop resistance to radiotherapy by examining the role of mitochondrial electron transport chain complexes. It aims to understand how these complexes rearrange into supercomplexes in response to cellular stress, which may alter the cells' energy production and reduce harmful byproducts. The study will utilize glioma cell lines, patient-derived models, and tumor samples to explore these mechanisms and identify potential therapeutic targets. By understanding these processes, the research seeks to uncover new strategies to enhance the effectiveness of radiotherapy for glioblastoma patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma who are undergoing or have undergone radiotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer 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 improved treatment strategies for glioblastoma, potentially overcoming resistance to radiotherapy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial functions in cancer, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, 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 Cancers
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.