Investigating a gene's role in a type of brain cancer in children
Role of SMARCD3/BAF60C in medulloblastoma
This study is looking at how a specific gene called SMARCD3 affects the growth and spread of a type of brain tumor called medulloblastoma in children, with the hope of finding new ways to help kids who are facing tough-to-treat cases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10943041 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on medulloblastoma, a fast-growing brain tumor in children, particularly examining the role of the SMARCD3 gene in tumor growth and metastasis. The study aims to understand how this gene contributes to the aggressive nature of certain subtypes of medulloblastoma, especially those that are high-risk and resistant to standard treatments. By exploring the molecular mechanisms behind tumor spread, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic targets that could improve outcomes for affected children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old diagnosed with high-risk medulloblastoma, particularly those with Group 3 or Group 4 subtypes.
Not a fit: Patients with low-risk medulloblastoma or those diagnosed with other types of brain tumors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that significantly improve survival rates and quality of life for children with high-risk medulloblastoma.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting molecular mechanisms in aggressive cancers, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hu, Baoli — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Hu, Baoli
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.