Improving radiation for cervical cancer by targeting glutamine use
Optimizing radiation therapy through the manipulation of glutamine metabolism
This project aims to see whether blocking cancer cells' use of glutamine helps radiation control cervical cancer better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11162381 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team will run laboratory studies and an investigator-initiated clinical trial combining a glutaminase inhibitor (CB-839) with standard chemoradiation for cervical cancer. In lab models they will examine how blocking glutamine affects both tumor cells and immune cells in the tumor environment, including shifting macrophages toward a more tumor-fighting state. Because radiation can stimulate anti-tumor immunity, the researchers expect the drug and radiation may work together to improve long-term tumor control. If promising, patients with locally advanced or radiation-resistant cervical cancer will be enrolled at Washington University to test safety and early signs of benefit.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with locally advanced or radiation-resistant cervical cancer who can receive chemoradiation and enroll in an early-phase clinical trial are the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People with cancers other than cervical cancer, those who cannot tolerate chemoradiation, or tumors that are not glutamine-dependent are less likely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could make radiation more effective, reduce recurrence, and improve outcomes for people with radiation-resistant cervical cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical studies and early-phase trials in other cancers suggest glutaminase inhibition can slow tumors and enhance immunity, but combining CB-839 with radiation for cervical cancer is largely novel.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schwarz, Julie Kristina — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Schwarz, Julie Kristina
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.