Investigating how tumor cells communicate with normal brain cells in glioblastoma
The power of extracellular vesicles in glioblastoma
This study is looking at how glioblastoma, a tough type of brain cancer, sends out tiny bubbles that can change normal brain cells into helpers for the tumor, and the researchers hope to use these bubbles to find the cancer earlier and create new treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10902043 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain cancer, and how tumor cells release extracellular vesicles that contain important molecules. These vesicles can alter normal brain cells, turning them into supportive cells for the tumor. The research team aims to identify these vesicles as biomarkers for early detection and to understand their role in the tumor microenvironment. By studying the interactions between tumor cells and immune cells, the project seeks to develop new therapeutic strategies to combat glioblastoma.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma or those at high risk for developing this type of brain cancer.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those without any brain cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection of glioblastoma and new treatment options that target the tumor's support system.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using extracellular vesicles as biomarkers in other cancers, indicating potential success in this novel approach for glioblastoma.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Breakefield, Xandra Owens — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Breakefield, Xandra Owens
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 below.