Targeting a specific metabolic pathway in pediatric brain tumors
Targeting Hexosamine Synthesis in Pediatric Brain Tumors
This study is looking at a type of brain tumor in kids called diffuse midline gliomas and how they use a special way to grow, with the hope of finding better treatments that can help fight the tumor while keeping healthy cells safe, and kids with this condition might have a chance to join in on testing these new treatment ideas.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11132342 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on pediatric brain tumors, particularly diffuse midline gliomas (DMG) that have a specific mutation affecting their growth and survival. The study aims to understand how these tumors utilize a unique metabolic pathway to sustain their growth and how targeting this pathway can potentially improve treatment outcomes. By investigating the role of the Hexosamine biosynthetic pathway and its interaction with glycolysis inhibitors, the research seeks to develop more effective therapies that specifically target tumor cells while sparing normal cells. Patients may have the opportunity to participate in trials that explore these innovative treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation would include children diagnosed with diffuse midline gliomas, particularly those with the H3K27a mutation.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those without the specific genetic mutation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for pediatric brain tumors, improving survival rates and quality of life for affected children.
How similar studies have performed: While targeting metabolic pathways in cancer is a growing area of research, this specific approach to pediatric brain tumors is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Agnihotri, Sameer — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Agnihotri, Sameer
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.