Targeting weaknesses in specific childhood brain tumors
Targeting vulnerabilities of PPM1D-mutant gliomas
This study is looking at a type of brain tumor in kids called diffuse midline gliomas to understand how certain gene changes might help the tumors grow, with the hope of finding new ways to treat these tough cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11014448 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on diffuse midline gliomas (DMGs), aggressive brain tumors in children that currently have no effective treatments. It investigates the role of PPM1D mutations, which are found in about 15% of these tumors, and how they contribute to tumor growth and survival. By understanding the mechanisms behind these mutations, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could lead to new treatment options for affected children. The approach includes detailed experiments to dissect the tumor biology and explore vulnerabilities that can be exploited for therapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with diffuse midline gliomas that have PPM1D mutations.
Not a fit: Patients with diffuse midline gliomas that do not have PPM1D mutations may not benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies for children with PPM1D-mutant gliomas, improving their treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting genetic mutations in cancers, suggesting that this approach could be effective, although the specific targeting of PPM1D mutations in DMGs is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Dana-Farber Cancer Inst — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bandopadhayay, Pratiti — Dana-Farber Cancer Inst
- Study coordinator: Bandopadhayay, Pratiti
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.