Investigating how a protein affects immune response in brain tumors

Chitinase-3-like-1 mediated immunosuppression in Glioblastoma

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11078715

This study is looking at how glioblastoma, a tough brain tumor, manages to escape the body's immune defenses, focusing on a protein called CHI3L1, to find new ways to help the immune system fight the tumor better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11078715 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain tumor that often resists treatment. It aims to understand how glioblastoma cells evade the immune system by altering their surrounding environment. The study specifically examines the role of a protein called Chitinase-3-like-1 (CHI3L1) in this process, using mouse models to observe changes in tumor growth and immune cell activity when CHI3L1 is silenced. By uncovering these mechanisms, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic strategies to enhance anti-tumor immunity in patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with glioblastoma who are seeking innovative treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not eligible for immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for glioblastoma, improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune evasion mechanisms in glioblastoma, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: anti-cancer therapy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.