Targeting a specific protein in brain cancer cells to improve treatment

Therapeutic Targeting of WDR5 in the Glioblastoma Perivascular Niche

NIH-funded research Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11145169

This study is looking at a protein called WDR5 in glioblastoma, a tough type of brain cancer, to see how it affects different parts of the tumor and how those areas respond to treatments, with the hope of finding better ways to help patients fight this disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11145169 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on glioblastoma, a deadly brain cancer, by investigating the role of a protein called WDR5 in the tumor's unique environment. The researchers have developed patient-derived organoids that mimic the complex microenvironments of glioblastoma, allowing them to study how different areas of the tumor behave and respond to therapies. By understanding the biology of glioblastoma stem cells within these niches, the goal is to identify new therapeutic strategies that can more effectively target the cancer. This approach aims to create niche-specific treatments that could lead to better outcomes for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma who may benefit from novel therapeutic approaches targeting their specific tumor microenvironment.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not diagnosed with glioblastoma may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for glioblastoma, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While targeting specific proteins in cancer treatment is a common approach, this research utilizes a novel method of patient-derived organoids to study glioblastoma, making it a unique and potentially groundbreaking investigation.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, 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.
Conditions Brain Cancer
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.