New treatments for aggressive brain tumors using small molecules
Official title: Small molecule inhibitors of Slit2/Robo signaling as novel therapeutics for glioblastoma
Funded at Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-10942698 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with glioblastoma by using special small molecules to improve current treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy, making them work better against this tough brain tumor.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | July 8, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $547,687 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA293456-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10942698 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma who have not responded adequately to current treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-glioblastoma brain tumors or those who are not eligible for any form of cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain tumor, and investigates the use of small molecule inhibitors to target the SLIT2/ROBO signaling pathway. By inhibiting this pathway, the research aims to reduce the immunosuppressive environment that hinders effective treatment. The approach involves preclinical models to evaluate how these small molecules can improve the effectiveness of existing therapies like chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Patients may benefit from a novel therapeutic strategy that could enhance treatment outcomes for glioblastoma.
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 gone: While targeting SLIT2/ROBO signaling is a novel approach in glioblastoma treatment, similar strategies in other cancers have shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gabr, Moustafa — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Gabr, Moustafa
Related research
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Small molecules to block Slit2/ROBO in glioblastoma
A study to test small molecule drugs that block Slit2/ROBO signals to help treat glioblastoma in patients.
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CD38-Driven Changes in Brain Tumor Metabolism and Immunity in Glioblastoma
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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.