Targeting a protein to improve treatment for aggressive brain tumors

CHI3L1-targeted small molecules for glioblastoma

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-11089514

This study is looking at a new way to help people with glioblastoma by creating small molecules that target a specific protein to help the immune system fight the tumor better, and they’re testing this in animals to see if it can shrink the tumor and let more immune cells in.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11089514 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain tumor, and aims to develop small molecules that target a specific protein called CHI3L1. By inhibiting this protein, the research seeks to alter the tumor microenvironment, making it less immunosuppressive and allowing the immune system to better attack the tumor. The approach involves using animal models to test the effectiveness of these small molecules in reducing tumor size and increasing immune cell infiltration. If successful, this could lead to new treatment options for patients with glioblastoma.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma who have not responded well to existing treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with non-glioblastoma brain tumors or those who are not eligible for experimental therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel therapeutic approach that enhances the effectiveness of immunotherapy for glioblastoma patients.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been various approaches to treating glioblastoma, targeting CHI3L1 represents a novel strategy that has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.