Testing drugs to slow the growth of tumors on the auditory nerve
Preclinical Testing of PI3K Inhibitors for Vestibular Schwannomas
This study is looking at a new way to treat vestibular schwannomas, which are benign tumors that can affect your hearing, by testing certain drugs that might help shrink the tumors without needing surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Central Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Orlando, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10447797 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of PI3K inhibitors to treat vestibular schwannomas, benign tumors that can cause hearing loss and other serious complications. The team has developed advanced laboratory techniques to screen both new and existing drugs that may effectively target these tumors. By using specialized cell lines that mimic the condition, they aim to identify compounds that can reduce tumor growth while preserving nerve function. The ultimate goal is to find a non-surgical treatment option that minimizes the risks associated with current surgical interventions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with vestibular schwannomas, particularly those with mutations in the NF2 gene.
Not a fit: Patients without vestibular schwannomas or those with tumors that do not involve the NF2 gene may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a non-invasive treatment option for patients with vestibular schwannomas, potentially preserving hearing and reducing the need for surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using PI3K inhibitors for treating various cancers, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Orlando, United States
- University of Central Florida — Orlando, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fernandez-Valle, Cristina Maria — University of Central Florida
- Study coordinator: Fernandez-Valle, Cristina Maria
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.