NIH-funded research R21 grant

Targeting metabolic weaknesses in brain tumors with specific genetic changes

Official title: Targeting metabolic vulnerabilities induced by the 1p19q codeletion in oligodendrogliomas

Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10893486 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at a type of brain tumor called oligodendroglioma to find new, gentler treatments that can stop the tumor from growing by targeting its energy sources, which could help patients feel better with fewer side effects.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project startJuly 25, 2023
Project endJune 30, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$215,179
NIH project number5R21CA277325-02
Project IDNIH-10893486 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with oligodendrogliomas that exhibit the 1p/19q codeletion.

Less likely to help

Patients with other types of brain tumors or those without the 1p/19q codeletion may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on oligodendrogliomas, a type of brain tumor characterized by a specific genetic alteration known as the 1p/19q codeletion. The study aims to identify metabolic vulnerabilities in these tumors to develop targeted therapies that are less toxic than current treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. By inhibiting certain enzymes involved in tumor metabolism, the researchers hope to disrupt the growth of these tumors and improve patient outcomes. The approach involves using a combination of inhibitors to effectively target the tumor's energy production pathways.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and less harmful treatment options for patients with oligodendrogliomas.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach could be effective for oligodendrogliomas as well.

Where this research is happening

  • University of California, San Francisco
    San Francisco, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Viswanath, Pavithra — University of California, San Francisco
  • Study coordinator: Viswanath, Pavithra

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.