Investigating how certain genetic factors influence neuroblastoma in children
Official title: Targetable epigenetic modifiers that promote neuroblastoma malignancy and plasticity
Funded at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital · NIH-11050940 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes make high-risk neuroblastoma, a tough childhood cancer, harder to treat, with the hope of finding better therapies for kids who need more options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. Jude Children's Research Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | January 15, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $718,113 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA289881-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11050940 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma, particularly those who have not responded well to existing treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with low-risk neuroblastoma or those whose cancer is not MYC-driven may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on neuroblastoma, a serious cancer affecting the sympathetic nervous system in children. It aims to identify the genetic vulnerabilities that contribute to the malignancy and treatment resistance of high-risk neuroblastoma. By utilizing advanced techniques like transcriptomics and CRISPR screening, the study seeks to understand how specific transcription factors and epigenetic modifiers are involved in the cancer's development and progression. The goal is to develop more effective therapies for patients who currently have limited treatment options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, targeted therapies that improve survival rates for children with high-risk neuroblastoma.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting epigenetic modifiers in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Jun — St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
- Study coordinator: Yang, Jun
Related research
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Drug-targetable epigenetic changes driving aggressive neuroblastoma
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A doctor-led study will test blood-based DNA markers to detect when NF1-related nerve tumors become malignant and to monitor how well treatment is working.
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Aims to understand and shape the epigenetic changes in IDH-mutant brain tumors to restrain their growth, which could lead to new, targeted treatment options for patients.
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Computational and functional screens to find actionable neuroblastoma drivers
Researchers are using advanced computer analysis and lab tests to find new genes and drug targets in neuroblastoma, aiming to improve outcomes for children.
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.