How mitochondria from brain cells affect glioblastoma tumor growth

Mitochondrial transfer from astrocytes to glioblastoma cells drives tumor growth

NIH-funded research University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11083743

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 typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Coral Gables, United States)
Project IDNIH-11083743 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glioblastoma who are seeking innovative treatment options.

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

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 performed: 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

Coral Gables, 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.
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.