Targeting NR4A1/NR4A2 to make glioblastoma treatments work better
“Pharmacologic targeting of NR4A1 and NR4A2 to activate glioblastoma treatment response”
This project aims to use new drugs that block NR4A1 and NR4A2 to help chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy work better for people with glioblastoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Methodist Hospital Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11176328 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers developed novel small molecules (CDIMs) that block two proteins, NR4A1 and NR4A2, which are linked to treatment resistance in glioblastoma. They will test these compounds in lab experiments and animal models to see how the drugs change the tumor microenvironment and reduce immune suppression and mesenchymal features. The team will combine CDIMs with temozolomide, radiation, and immune checkpoint therapies to look for improved anti-tumor immune responses and treatment sensitivity. Results and tumor tissue analyses tied to patient outcomes will guide whether this approach should move toward human clinical trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with glioblastoma—especially those whose tumors show high NR4A1/NR4A2 activity or who are not responding well to standard treatments—would be the likely candidates for related future trials.
Not a fit: People without glioblastoma or whose tumors do not show NR4A-driven resistance are unlikely to benefit from this specific approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could make existing glioblastoma therapies more effective and potentially extend patient survival.
How similar studies have performed: Targeting immune suppression and mesenchymal changes has shown promise in other cancers, but combining NR4A1/2 inhibition with standard glioblastoma treatments is a novel strategy.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Methodist Hospital Research Institute — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rostomily, Robert C — Methodist Hospital Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Rostomily, Robert C
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.