Mapping the cell types that drive malignant glioma
Dissecting the cellular hierarchies of malignant gliomas by single-cell functional genomics
This project uses single-cell and spatial genomics to map the different cells inside malignant gliomas for people with glioblastoma and related astrocytic tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11301815 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will analyze tumor samples using single-cell and spatial genomic methods to identify the distinct cell types and their roles within malignant gliomas. They will link gene activity patterns to functional tests to find which cells drive tumor growth and resist treatments. Some experiments may use lab models to test how targeting specific cell types affects tumor behavior. The team will combine these data to point toward new targets that could be tested in future therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are people with glioblastoma or other astrocytic tumors who can provide tumor tissue during surgery or agree to have their tumor data used in research.
Not a fit: People without astrocytic brain tumors or those unwilling or unable to provide tumor samples are unlikely to directly benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal specific tumor cell types and vulnerabilities that lead to more targeted and effective treatments for glioma patients.
How similar studies have performed: Recent single-cell and spatial genomic studies in glioblastoma have produced promising biological insights, though translating these findings into new treatments is still early.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Suva, Mario Luca — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Suva, Mario Luca
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.