How myeloid cells help the immune system fight pediatric brain tumors after radiation

Contribution of myeloid cells to the anti-tumor adaptive immune response after radiation in a pediatric brain tumor

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11074668

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 typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11074668 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pediatric patients diagnosed with brain tumors who are undergoing radiation therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with brain tumors who are not receiving radiation therapy or those with other types of cancer may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Saint Louis, 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.