Improving Immunotherapy for Brain Cancer

Project 1: Targeting immunotherapy-induced resistance with DC vaccination and PD-1/CSF-1R inhibition

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-11164734

This research explores new ways to make immunotherapy more effective for people with glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer, by overcoming treatment resistance.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11164734 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

For patients with glioblastoma, finding effective treatments is a major challenge, and immunotherapy offers a promising path by using the body's own immune system to fight cancer. Our previous work with a type of immunotherapy called dendritic cell (DC) vaccination, combined with anti-PD1 treatment, showed that immune cells could enter brain tumors. However, we also noticed that this approach might unintentionally bring in other cells that suppress the immune response. This project aims to block these immune-suppressing cells using a new drug, CSF-1R inhibitor, alongside the DC vaccination and anti-PD1 treatment, to help the immune system better attack the tumor.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This research is focused on understanding and improving treatments for patients diagnosed with glioblastoma, particularly those who may develop resistance to current immunotherapies.

Not a fit: Patients without glioblastoma or those not receiving immunotherapy would not directly benefit from this specific research at its current stage.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more effective and longer-lasting immunotherapy treatments for patients with glioblastoma, potentially improving survival.

How similar studies have performed: Previous clinical trial results from this group showed T-cell infiltration into brain tumors with DC vaccination, and animal studies combining these new strategies have shown significantly prolonged survival.

Where this research is happening

LOS ANGELES, 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: Brain Cancer

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.