Identifying resistant tumor cells in children's liver cancers

Discovery of chemoresistant tumor subclones in pediatric liver cancers

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11001461

This study is looking at why some liver cancers in kids don’t get better with chemotherapy, and by examining tumor samples, the researchers hope to find ways to spot these stubborn cancer cells early and create tailored treatments to help kids fight their cancer more effectively.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11001461 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding why some pediatric liver cancers, such as hepatoblastoma and hepatocellular carcinoma, do not respond to chemotherapy. By studying tumor samples from children, the researchers aim to identify specific cancer cells that resist treatment. They will develop new technologies to detect these resistant cells early and create personalized treatment plans that target them effectively. This approach hopes to improve survival rates for children with high-risk liver cancers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old diagnosed with high-risk liver cancers.

Not a fit: Patients with liver cancers that are not classified as high-risk or those who are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for children with liver cancer, potentially increasing their chances of survival.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting chemoresistant cancer cells, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.