How myeloid cells help the immune system fight pediatric brain tumors after radiation
Official title: Contribution of myeloid cells to the anti-tumor adaptive immune response after radiation in a pediatric brain tumor
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11074668 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells can help kids with brain tumors respond better to radiation treatment, with the goal of finding new ways to strengthen their immune system against the cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $238,140 |
| NIH project number | 5K08CA273537-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11074668 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pediatric patients diagnosed with brain tumors who are undergoing radiation therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with brain tumors who are not receiving radiation therapy or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of myeloid cells in enhancing the immune response against pediatric brain tumors following radiation treatment. The principal investigator, Dr. Mai Dang, aims to understand how these immune cells interact with the tumor microenvironment to improve treatment outcomes for young patients. By focusing on antigen-presenting cells, the research seeks to identify novel strategies to boost anti-tumor immunity. The study will involve advanced immunological techniques and collaboration with experienced mentors in the field.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies that enhance the immune response in children with brain tumors, potentially increasing survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing anti-tumor immunity through modulation of the immune microenvironment, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dang, Mai T — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Dang, Mai T
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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.