New treatments targeting immune cells in brain cancer

Developing Novel Therapeutic Approaches Targeting Macrophages in GBM

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10894826

This study is looking at how certain immune cells help glioblastoma, a tough type of brain cancer, grow and spread, with the hope of finding better treatment options that could work alongside current therapies to help patients feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10894826 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on glioblastoma (GBM), a highly aggressive brain cancer with limited treatment options. The team is investigating how certain immune cells, specifically tumor-associated macrophages, contribute to the growth and spread of GBM. They aim to understand the mechanisms that lead to the recruitment and activation of these macrophages and explore new therapeutic strategies that combine existing treatments with novel approaches targeting these immune cells. Patients may benefit from improved treatment options that could enhance their response to therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glioblastoma, particularly those with specific genetic mutations like PTEN.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who do not have glioblastoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

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

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting immune cells in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could be beneficial for glioblastoma as well.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.