Targeting cancer stem cells in pediatric brain tumors
Official title: Epigenetically regulated stemness program and stem cell niche as targets in pediatric DIPG
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11072110 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cancer cells in a tough type of brain cancer called DIPG affect how well treatments work, with the goal of finding new ways to help kids with this condition live longer and healthier lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $446,213 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS131515-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11072110 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pediatric patients diagnosed with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG).
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not diagnosed with DIPG may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cancer stem cells in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a type of brain cancer affecting children. The study aims to understand how these cells contribute to treatment resistance and tumor progression, which is critical for developing new therapies. By examining specific proteins and genetic mutations in laboratory models, researchers hope to identify potential targets for innovative treatments that could improve survival rates for affected children.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly prolong the lives of children diagnosed with DIPG.
How similar studies have gone: While many studies have explored cancer treatments, this specific approach targeting cancer stem cells in DIPG is relatively novel and has not yet shown widespread success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Galban, Stefanie — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Galban, Stefanie
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.