NF1-Driven Glioblastoma: Targeting MAPK Signaling in Adults
Official title: PROJECT 2: NF1-associated Glioblastoma
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11422878 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new program will test a brain-penetrant MEK inhibitor for adults with NF1-related or NF1-mutant glioblastoma to slow tumor growth and improve outcomes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2015 |
| Project end | August 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $512,771 |
| NIH project number | 2U54CA196519-11 |
| Project ID | NIH-11422878 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with NF1-mutant glioblastoma or NF1-related gliomas, especially those with 9p21.3 deletions, who are eligible for MEK inhibitor therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without NF1 mutations or without eligibility for the brain-penetrant MEK inhibitor may not benefit from this specific trial.
What this research studies
This research aims to understand how loss of the NF1 gene drives a particular type of glioblastoma and to test a next-generation MEK inhibitor that can reach the brain. By focusing on adults with NF1 mutations and those with the 9p21.3 deletion, the study seeks to identify whether blocking MAPK/MEK signaling can halt tumor progression. The project plans to translate laboratory findings into a brain-accessible therapy and evaluate safety and preliminary effectiveness in a clinical setting. Participants may benefit from a targeted treatment option and contribute to knowledge that could help similar patients in the future.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants could receive a new targeted treatment option and help advance therapy for NF1-mutant glioblastoma.
How similar studies have gone: Emerging data show MEK inhibitors can be effective in NF1-related tumors, with recent FDA approvals guiding this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parada, Luis Fernando — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Parada, Luis Fernando
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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.