Mapping how brain tumors connect with neural circuits in mice
Official title: Monosynaptic tracing defines circuit connectivity of human high-grade glioma in the adult mouse brain
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11159369 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how glioblastoma, a serious brain cancer, interacts with normal brain cells in mice to find out how these connections might affect tumor growth and brain function, with the hope of discovering new ways to treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS137664-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11159369 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with glioblastoma or those at risk for developing this type of brain cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not diagnosed with any brain cancer may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the connections between glioblastoma, a deadly brain cancer, and the normal neural circuitry in the adult mouse brain. By using advanced tracing techniques, the study aims to identify the types of neurons that interact with tumor cells and how these interactions may influence tumor growth and brain function. The goal is to better understand the cellular diversity and circuit architecture involved, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating glioblastoma. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could inform future treatments targeting these connections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapies that improve outcomes for patients with glioblastoma.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tumor-neuron interactions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sun, Yusha — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Sun, Yusha
Related research
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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.