New treatments for advanced brain tumors using microRNA therapies

microRNA therapies for advanced brain tumors

NIH-funded research University of South Carolina at Columbia · NIH-10977273

This study is testing a new way to treat glioblastoma by using special tiny molecules called microRNAs delivered through stem cells to help fight the tumor and boost the immune system after surgery, all while keeping safety in mind.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10977273 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative therapies for glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain tumor. It explores the use of microRNAs, specifically miR-124 and miR-7, delivered through neural stem cells to target tumor cells and enhance the immune response against the cancer. The approach involves local delivery of these microRNAs into the tumor site after surgical removal, aiming to reduce tumor cell proliferation and improve patient outcomes. The study will also assess the safety of this method using a gene system designed to eliminate any potential risks from the stem cell therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma who are undergoing treatment or have recently had tumor resection.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not eligible for surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for glioblastoma, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of microRNA therapies is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in targeting glioblastoma, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Columbia, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.