New drugs targeting norepinephrine transporter to treat hard-to-treat neuroblastoma in children

Prodrugs targeting norepinephrine transporter for dual-selective therapy of refractory neuroblastoma

NIH-funded research Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-10874468

This study is testing new types of medicines that aim to better target and treat neuroblastoma, a tough childhood cancer, by delivering the drugs right to the tumor while protecting healthy cells, and it may involve patients in trials to see how safe and effective these treatments are.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChildren's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10874468 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates innovative prodrugs designed to specifically target the norepinephrine transporter (NET) in neuroblastoma, a severe type of cancer affecting children. By enhancing drug delivery directly to the tumor cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues, the study aims to improve treatment outcomes for patients with refractory neuroblastoma. The approach combines targeted drug action with a unique uptake mechanism to ensure that the therapeutic effects are concentrated in the tumor environment. Patients may be involved in trials assessing the safety and effectiveness of these new treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma that has not responded to standard treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with neuroblastoma that is not classified as refractory or those outside the age range may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and less toxic treatment options for children suffering from refractory neuroblastoma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting the norepinephrine transporter in cancer therapies, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
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Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.