How mitochondria from brain cells affect glioblastoma tumor growth
Official title: Mitochondrial transfer from astrocytes to glioblastoma cells drives tumor growth
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11083743 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how energy-producing parts of brain cells can be passed to aggressive brain tumors, and it hopes to find new ways to help treat glioblastoma by understanding how these interactions affect tumor growth and treatment resistance.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | April 3, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $133,514 |
| NIH project number | 5R00CA277242-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11083743 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glioblastoma who are seeking innovative 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 the role of mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells, that are transferred from astrocytes (a type of brain cell) to glioblastoma cells, which are aggressive brain tumors. The study aims to understand how this transfer influences tumor growth and resistance to treatments. By examining the interactions between glioblastoma cells and their surrounding environment, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could be targeted for new therapies. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective treatments for glioblastoma.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that improve outcomes for patients with glioblastoma.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of mitochondrial transfer in glioblastoma is relatively novel, there is emerging evidence from other studies that similar mechanisms of cell interaction can influence tumor behavior.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Watson, Dionysios C — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Watson, Dionysios C
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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.