Improving CAR T cell therapies for pediatric brain tumors

Targeting tumor and T cell DNA methylomes to improve CAR T cell therapies for diffuse midline glioma

['FUNDING_U01'] · ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL · NIH-10923857

This study is looking at ways to make CAR T cell therapies work better for kids with tough brain tumors, like diffuse midline glioma, by changing certain patterns in their DNA to help the immune system fight the cancer more effectively.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10923857 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how to enhance CAR T cell therapies specifically for pediatric brain tumors, which often resist current treatments. The approach focuses on understanding and modifying the DNA methylation patterns in both the tumor cells and the CAR T cells to improve their effectiveness. By targeting these epigenetic changes, the research aims to boost the immune response against tumors like diffuse midline glioma, which is particularly challenging to treat. The study will utilize advanced techniques to analyze how these modifications can lead to better patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with diffuse midline glioma or other pediatric brain tumors who have not responded to standard therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with brain tumors that are not diffuse midline gliomas or those who have already exhausted all treatment options may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective CAR T cell therapies for children with aggressive brain tumors, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in enhancing CAR T cell therapies through epigenetic modifications, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

MEMPHIS, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancers

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.