Improving CAR T-cell treatment for diffuse midline glioma by changing DNA methylation in tumors and T cells
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-11182577
Researchers are trying to help CAR T-cell therapy work better for people with diffuse midline glioma by altering DNA methylation in both the tumor and the immune cells.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_U01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11182577 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at DNA methylation — chemical tags that control gene activity — in both diffuse midline glioma tumor cells and in CAR T immune cells. Scientists will modify methylation in the tumor and in CAR T cells (using drugs or genetic changes) to encourage immune cell recruitment and stronger anti-tumor activity. They will test these approaches in lab and animal models and use the results to design improved CAR T-cell strategies for patients. The team aims to combine tumor-targeting and T-cell reprogramming to overcome resistance that currently limits benefit.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People (typically children or young adults) with diffuse midline glioma who are candidates for CAR T-cell therapies or related clinical trials would be the likely candidates.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors, those who are not eligible for CAR T-cell therapy, or whose tumors lack the relevant targets or do not respond to epigenetic changes may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could make CAR T-cell therapy work better and longer against diffuse midline glioma, potentially slowing tumor growth and improving survival.
How similar studies have performed: Early preclinical work and initial clinical CAR T trials show promise and some improved activity, but clear, durable clinical benefit in diffuse midline glioma has not yet been established.
Where this research is happening
MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES
- ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL — MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MACK, STEPHEN C — ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: MACK, STEPHEN C
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.
Conditions: Cancers