Investigating a new mechanism of cancer development in a type of brain tumor in children
Official title: Transcriptional activation of RCOR2 as a novel oncogenic mechanism in supratentorial ependymoma
Funded at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute · NIH-10762312 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how specific genes might play a role in the growth of a type of brain tumor called supratentorial ependymoma in kids, with the hope of discovering new ways to treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | January 7, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $536,250 |
| NIH project number | 7R21NS130137-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10762312 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with supratentorial ependymoma, particularly those with the ST-ZFTA-EPN molecular subtype.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of brain tumors or those without a diagnosis of ependymoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how certain genes contribute to the development of supratentorial ependymoma, a common and aggressive brain tumor in children. By analyzing the 3D structure of tumor cells, researchers aim to identify new genetic changes that lead to increased expression of the RCOR2 gene, which may drive tumor growth. The study utilizes advanced techniques to explore the molecular mechanisms behind this cancer, with the goal of finding innovative treatment options for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that improve survival rates for children with supratentorial ependymoma.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting RCOR2 in supratentorial ependymoma is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding and treating other aggressive brain tumors.
Where this research is happening
-
Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chavez, Lukas — Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute
- Study coordinator: Chavez, Lukas
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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.