Investigating how a protein affects brain cancer stem cells
Official title: Connexin 43 drives glioblastoma cancer stem cells through a WNK1 signaling axis
Funded at Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-10986467 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called connexin 43 affects cancer stem cells in glioblastoma, a serious type of brain cancer, to find new ways to improve treatment for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $161,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03NS135197-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10986467 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma, particularly those with recurrent disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not diagnosed with glioblastoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on glioblastoma, a deadly form of brain cancer, particularly examining how a protein called connexin 43 influences cancer stem cells that contribute to tumor growth and recurrence. The study aims to understand the role of connexin 43 in maintaining the survival of these stem cells and its interaction with a signaling pathway involving WNK1. By analyzing patient-derived tumor samples, researchers will explore how these cellular mechanisms can be targeted to improve treatment outcomes for glioblastoma patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that specifically target cancer stem cells in glioblastoma, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting connexins in various cancers, suggesting that this approach may hold potential for glioblastoma as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mulkearns-Hubert, Erin E. — Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
- Study coordinator: Mulkearns-Hubert, Erin E.
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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.