Immune cells' creatine supports low-oxygen zones in glioblastoma
The hypoxic niche in glioblastoma is maintained by myeloid produced creatine
['FUNDING_R01'] · NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11294357
Researchers are looking at whether creatine made by immune cells helps glioblastoma cells survive in low-oxygen tumor pockets and resist treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11294357 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, the team studies tumor samples from people with glioblastoma to see where the creatine transporter and creatine-producing immune cells are located. They combine detailed molecular analyses of human tumors with lab experiments in mouse and human cell models to test how creatine exchange affects therapy-resistant glioma stem cells. The work focuses on tumor-associated myeloid cells that appear to make creatine and on the Slc6a8 transporter that tumor cells use to take it up. Findings will guide whether blocking this metabolic support could weaken hypoxic tumor regions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with glioblastoma who can donate tumor tissue or participate in tissue-based or observational research are the most appropriate candidates to engage with this work.
Not a fit: This project may not directly help children, people with other types of brain tumors, or those seeking an immediate new clinical treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could reveal targets to dismantle treatment-resistant, low-oxygen niches in glioblastoma and make chemotherapy and radiation work better.
How similar studies have performed: Related lab studies connecting tumor metabolism and immune cells have produced promising preclinical results, but clinical benefit in patients is not yet established.
Where this research is happening
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES
- NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MISKA, JASON — NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: MISKA, JASON
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 below.