Investigating how stress and fat metabolism affect brain tumor stem cells

Role of ER Stress and Fatty Acid Metabolism in Glioma Stem Cells

['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-10888206

This study is looking at how certain cells in glioblastoma, a tough type of brain tumor, survive and resist treatment, and it aims to find new ways to help patients by targeting the way these cells use fats for energy.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10888206 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain tumor, and the role of glioma stem cells (GSCs) in its growth and treatment resistance. The study aims to identify factors that maintain GSCs, particularly how fatty acid metabolism and endoplasmic reticulum stress contribute to their survival and proliferation. By targeting specific enzymes involved in fat metabolism, the research seeks to develop new therapeutic strategies that could improve treatment outcomes for patients with glioblastoma. The approach includes both laboratory experiments and preclinical models to assess the effectiveness of potential treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma who may benefit from novel treatment approaches targeting glioma stem cells.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not diagnosed with glioblastoma may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that specifically target glioblastoma stem cells, potentially improving survival rates for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer cells, suggesting that this approach could be effective for glioblastoma as well.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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 →

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.