Next‑gen oncolytic virus therapy for glioblastoma targeting AKT and ERK
Official title: Next generation oncolytic virotherapy targeting AKT and ERK signaling in glioma
Funded at Lsu Health Sciences Center · NIH-11578987 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new cancer therapy using an engineered oncolytic virus to fight glioblastoma by blocking AKT/ERK signals and boosting the body’s immune response, with potential to reduce seizures and improve quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lsu Health Sciences Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project start | May 10, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $577,220 |
| NIH project number | 7R01NS137577-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11578987 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not applicable to current patients; this is preclinical/early-stage research guiding future trials.
✕Less likely to help
The study uses animal models and laboratory experiments and does not directly involve patient care today.
What this research studies
This project aims to create an oncolytic virus designed to kill glioblastoma cells and enhance anti-tumor immunity, potentially in combination with radiation and Temozolomide. Researchers will test an armed oHSV that interferes with the PI3K/AKT pathway and study its effects on tumor growth, seizures, and the tumor microenvironment in animal models. The study also explores whether this therapy could lessen glioma‑associated epilepsy and improve daily living for patients. Results from these preclinical studies could guide future human trials for adults with GBM. The work is conducted at LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans under BALVEEN KAUR’s leadership.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this therapy could slow tumor growth, reduce seizures, and improve survival and life quality for adults with GBM.
How similar studies have gone: Preclinical work on oHSV with immune activation and PI3K/AKT pathway targeting has shown therapeutic promise in models, supporting continued development.
Where this research is happening
-
Lsu Health Sciences Center
New Orleans, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaur, Balveen — Lsu Health Sciences Center
- Study coordinator: Kaur, Balveen
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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.