Investigating how a specific mutation affects aggressive brain tumors in children
Official title: CDK9-mediated processive transcription in H3K27M+ diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10919797 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene change in aggressive brain tumors called DIPGs, which mostly affect kids, might influence how these tumors grow and respond to treatments, with the hope of finding new ways to help fight this tough condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 15, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $189,896 |
| NIH project number | 5K08NS121592-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10919797 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), particularly those with the H3K27M mutation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with DIPG who do not have the H3K27M mutation may not benefit from the specific findings of this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPGs), which are aggressive brainstem tumors primarily affecting children. It examines how a mutation in the histone 3 gene (H3K27M) alters the transcription process in these tumors, potentially leading to cancer progression. The study employs advanced techniques such as CRISPR to edit genes and analyze patient-derived cultures to understand the role of CDK9 in transcriptional elongation and its impact on tumor behavior and response to treatment. By exploring these mechanisms, the research aims to identify new therapeutic strategies for DIPG.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for children with DIPG, improving their prognosis and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting transcriptional mechanisms in cancer, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dahl, Nathan a — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Dahl, Nathan a
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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.