Investigating Dichloroacetate for treating aggressive brain tumors

Phase IIA Trial of Dichloroacetate for Glioblastoma Multiforme, IND137007, 09172019

NIH-funded research University of Florida · NIH-10919168

This study is looking at how well a treatment called dichloroacetate (DCA) works for people with glioblastoma, a tough type of brain tumor, to see if it can help improve their health and survival.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Florida NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Gainesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10919168 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a highly aggressive brain tumor with limited treatment options. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of dichloroacetate (DCA), a compound that can inhibit certain enzymes involved in tumor metabolism, potentially improving patient outcomes. By targeting the metabolic processes of GBM, the research seeks to provide a new therapeutic approach that could enhance survival rates. Patients will be monitored for safety and efficacy as they receive DCA treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme who have undergone standard treatment but are facing tumor recurrence.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who have not been diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment option that improves survival rates for patients with glioblastoma.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of dichloroacetate in treating glioblastoma is a novel approach, similar metabolic therapies have shown promise in other cancer types.

Where this research is happening

Gainesville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.