NIH-funded research R21 grant

Investigating how CD44 signaling affects glioblastoma and immune response

Official title: Targeting CD44 signaling in regulating glioblastoma stemness and immune response

Funded at Augusta University · NIH-10851941 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at ways to make treatments for glioblastoma, a tough type of brain tumor, work better by focusing on a specific protein called CD44, which helps us understand how the tumor interacts with the immune system and other cells, with the hope of finding new strategies that could improve survival and quality of life for patients.

More Glioblastoma research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAugusta University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Augusta, United States)
Project startJune 1, 2023
Project endMay 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$197,479
NIH project number5R21NS130429-02
Project IDNIH-10851941 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma who are seeking innovative treatment options.

Less likely to help

Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not eligible for glioblastoma treatments may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain tumor, and aims to improve treatment outcomes by targeting CD44 signaling. The study explores how CD44 interacts with the tumor microenvironment and immune cells, which may influence the effectiveness of oncolytic viral therapy. By understanding these interactions, the research seeks to enhance the efficacy of existing therapies, particularly those involving oncolytic herpes simplex viruses. Patients may benefit from new treatment strategies that could improve survival rates and quality of life.

Why it matters

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

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with oncolytic viral therapies in treating glioblastoma, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

  • Augusta University
    Augusta, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Hong, Bangxing B — Augusta University
  • Study coordinator: Hong, Bangxing B

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.