New vaccine targeting a virus in pediatric brain tumors
Phase 2 trial of a novel peptide vaccine targeting CMV antigen for newly diagnosed pediatric high grade glioma and diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma and recurrent medulloblastoma
This study is testing a new vaccine that helps the immune system fight certain brain tumors in kids caused by a virus, aiming to keep healthy brain tissue safe while helping those with high-grade glioma, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, and recurrent medulloblastoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10492522 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel peptide vaccine designed to target cytomegalovirus (CMV) antigens found in specific types of pediatric brain tumors, including high-grade glioma, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, and recurrent medulloblastoma. The vaccine aims to stimulate the immune system to attack tumor cells while sparing healthy brain tissue. The study is currently in Phase 2, building on promising preliminary results that showed immune responses in a majority of participants. Patients will receive the vaccine and be monitored for safety and effectiveness through imaging and clinical assessments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and young adults newly diagnosed with high-grade glioma, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, or recurrent medulloblastoma.
Not a fit: Patients with brain tumors that do not express CMV antigens or those who are not newly diagnosed or recurrent may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment option that improves survival rates and quality of life for children with aggressive brain tumors.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results with similar vaccine approaches targeting viral antigens in tumors, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Landi, Daniel Bryce — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Landi, Daniel Bryce
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.