New treatment for aggressive brain tumors in children and adults
Phase 1/2 trial of PEP-CMV + nivolumab for newly diagnosed diffuse midline glioma/high-grade glioma and recurrent diffuse midline glioma/high-grade glioma, medulloblastoma, and ependymoma (PRiME II)
This study is testing a new treatment for kids with tough brain tumors by using a special vaccine and a medicine that helps the immune system fight the cancer better, with the hope of helping them live longer and feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11029506 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new treatment approach for aggressive brain tumors, specifically targeting pediatric high-grade glioma, diffuse midline glioma, recurrent medulloblastoma, and ependymoma. The treatment combines a peptide vaccine that targets a specific virus protein found in these tumors with an immune checkpoint inhibitor to enhance the body's immune response against the cancer. Patients will receive the vaccine along with nivolumab, a medication that helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. The goal is to improve survival rates and quality of life for patients suffering from these devastating conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with pediatric high-grade glioma, diffuse midline glioma, recurrent medulloblastoma, or ependymoma.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who have already received extensive treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve survival rates and treatment outcomes for patients with aggressive brain tumors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar immunotherapeutic approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel combination treatment.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thompson, Eric — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Thompson, Eric
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.