Investigating new treatments for a specific type of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST).

National Succinate Dehydrogenase-deficient GIST Translational Research and Clinical Trial Consortium

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11049088

This study is looking at a new way to treat gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) caused by specific gene changes, by combining a chemotherapy drug called temozolomide with a new treatment that targets a protein to see if it helps patients feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11049088 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) that are caused by mutations affecting the succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) complex. It aims to explore the effectiveness of combining the chemotherapy drug temozolomide (TMZ) with a new therapeutic agent that targets death receptor 5 (DR5) to improve treatment outcomes for patients with SDH-deficient GISTs. The study includes a multicenter phase II trial and utilizes a unique biorepository of patient-derived cell cultures to test these treatments. Patients may have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials that assess the safety and efficacy of this combined approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with SDH-deficient gastrointestinal stromal tumors, particularly adolescents and young adults.

Not a fit: Patients with GISTs that do not have SDH deficiencies or those who do not meet the trial criteria may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective treatment option for patients with SDH-deficient GISTs, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with temozolomide in small cohorts, indicating potential for success with this combined treatment approach.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.