Targeting a protein called IDH1 to treat aggressive brain tumors
Inhibition of wild-type IDH1 as a ferroptosis-inducing therapeutic approach for the treatment of malignant glioma.
['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11123227
This research explores a new way to treat aggressive brain tumors, called malignant glioma, by blocking a specific protein to trigger cancer cell death.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11123227 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our team has found that a protein called IDH1 is often overactive in many aggressive brain tumors that lack a specific mutation. When we block this protein, either alone or with radiation, it slows down tumor growth in models using patient-derived cells. We believe that by blocking IDH1, we can make cancer cells more vulnerable to a special type of cell death called ferroptosis. This approach aims to specifically target cancer cells while sparing healthy ones.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is focused on patients with malignant glioma, particularly those whose tumors have high levels of wild-type IDH1 protein.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of cancer or those whose glioma tumors do not overexpress wild-type IDH1 may not directly benefit from this specific approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to new and more effective treatments for patients with aggressive malignant glioma, potentially improving outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory studies have shown that inhibiting wild-type IDH1 can slow the growth of patient-derived brain tumors, suggesting promise for this novel therapeutic strategy.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: STEGH, ALEXANDER H. — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: STEGH, ALEXANDER H.
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.