Improving treatment for brain cancer using a CMV peptide vaccine
Official title: Expanding CMV peptide vaccine with novel combinations and pathologies
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10950990 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new vaccine designed to help children's immune systems fight aggressive brain tumors linked to a virus called cytomegalovirus (CMV), with the hope of improving their chances of survival and overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $77,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R03NS138988-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10950990 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pediatric patients diagnosed with high-grade gliomas, diffuse midline gliomas, recurrent medulloblastomas, or recurrent ependymomas.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with brain tumors that do not express CMV antigens or those who are not pediatric patients may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel peptide vaccine targeting the human cytomegalovirus (CMV) antigen found in certain aggressive brain tumors, particularly in pediatric patients. The approach aims to harness the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively than traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. By investigating the presence of CMV antigens in various brain tumor types, the study seeks to enhance the understanding of how to improve survival rates and quality of life for affected children. The research includes preliminary trials that have shown promising immune responses in patients treated with the vaccine.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective treatment option for children with aggressive brain tumors, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary results from similar immunotherapy approaches have shown promise, indicating that targeting CMV antigens may be a viable strategy for treating certain brain tumors.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thompson, Eric — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Thompson, Eric
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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.