New CAR T cell therapy for treating childhood brain tumors

Next Generation GPC2-CARs for Medulloblastoma

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11051634

This study is testing a new type of treatment for children with medulloblastoma, a common brain tumor, by using specially designed immune cells to target the cancer while being kinder to their healthy cells.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11051634 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel CAR T cell therapy targeting GPC2, a protein overexpressed in medulloblastoma, the most common malignant brain tumor in children. By using a specialized approach that enhances the effectiveness of CAR T cells, the research aims to create a targeted treatment that minimizes toxicity compared to traditional therapies. The methodology involves optimizing CAR T cells to specifically attack cancer cells while sparing normal tissues, potentially leading to better outcomes for young patients with high-risk tumors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with medulloblastoma, particularly those with high-risk or recurrent forms of the disease.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those diagnosed with other types of brain tumors not expressing GPC2 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and more effective treatment option for children with medulloblastoma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with CAR T cell therapies in pediatric brain tumors, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

STANFORD, 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 →

Conditions: Brain Cancer

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.