Targeting brain tumors with specialized cell therapies
Official title: Cell surface receptor targeted therapies for brain tumors
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11047965 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to treat aggressive brain tumors called glioblastomas by using specially designed stem cells that can deliver targeted therapies right to the tumor, helping the body's immune system fight back more effectively.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 7, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $417,858 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA288535-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047965 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma who have not responded well to standard therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-brain tumors or those who have already exhausted all treatment options may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new therapies for aggressive brain tumors, specifically glioblastomas, which are often resistant to standard treatments. The approach involves using engineered mesenchymal stem cells that can deliver targeted therapies directly to the tumor site. These stem cells are designed to release bi-specific T cell engagers that activate the body's immune response against the tumor. By utilizing mouse models, the research aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of this innovative treatment strategy in reducing tumor growth.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel and effective treatment option for patients with glioblastomas, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with engineered T cell therapies in hematological cancers, but this approach for solid tumors like glioblastomas is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shah, Khalid a — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Shah, Khalid a
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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.