Improving radiation therapy for brainstem glioma by targeting a specific gene
Enhancing the efficacy of Radiation Therapy for brainstem glioma by targeting ATM
This study is looking at a new way to make radiation therapy work better for children with aggressive brain tumors called brainstem gliomas by targeting a specific gene, hoping to improve treatment results for young patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10890125 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the effectiveness of radiation therapy for brainstem gliomas, which are aggressive brain tumors primarily affecting children. The approach involves targeting the Ataxia Telangiectasia Mutated (ATM) gene, which plays a crucial role in the cellular response to DNA damage. By inactivating ATM in tumor cells, the researchers aim to make these tumors more sensitive to radiation, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes. The study utilizes genetically engineered mouse models to test the effectiveness of this strategy, with the hope of translating successful results to human patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and young adults diagnosed with brainstem gliomas, particularly those with the H3K27M mutation.
Not a fit: Patients with brainstem gliomas who are not eligible for radiation therapy or those with other types of brain tumors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve survival rates for patients with brainstem gliomas by making radiation therapy more effective.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in similar approaches targeting DNA damage response mechanisms to enhance cancer treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reitman, Zachary — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Reitman, Zachary
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.