Identifying new biomarkers for tumor burden in neurofibromatosis type 1
Official title: Developing Novel Biomarkers of Plexiform Neurofibroma Tumor Burden
Funded at Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago · NIH-11142173 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for new ways to track tumor growth in children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) by testing blood samples, which could make it easier and less invasive to monitor their condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | June 20, 2025 |
| Project end | May 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $734,542 |
| NIH project number | 4R33NS122094-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11142173 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type 1 who are experiencing plexiform neurofibromas.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neurofibromatosis type 1 or those who do not have plexiform neurofibromas may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a genetic disorder that often leads to the development of plexiform neurofibromas (PNFs) in children. The study aims to discover new biomarkers that can indicate tumor burden, which is currently challenging due to the limitations of MRI imaging. By analyzing plasma samples from both animal models and NF1 patients, researchers will utilize advanced techniques like mass spectrometry to identify specific biomarker signals associated with tumor growth. This approach could provide a less invasive and more accessible method for monitoring tumor burden in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved monitoring and management of tumor burden in children with neurofibromatosis type 1.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying biomarkers for other tumor types, suggesting potential success for this novel approach in NF1.
Where this research is happening
-
Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Prada, Carlos Enrique — Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Prada, Carlos Enrique
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.