Understanding and targeting the mechanisms that help neuroblastoma tumor cells survive and grow

Characterizing and Targeting the Epigenetic Mechanisms Maintaining Neuroblastoma Tumor Initiating Cells

['FUNDING_R15'] · ST. JOHN'S UNIVERSITY · NIH-10579019

This study is looking at how some tough neuroblastoma cancer cells manage to survive treatment, with the goal of creating new therapies that can better target and eliminate these stubborn cells to help prevent the cancer from coming back.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R15']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorST. JOHN'S UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (QUEENS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10579019 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on identifying and targeting the specific epigenetic mechanisms that allow certain neuroblastoma tumor cells to survive and resist treatment. By studying a unique subpopulation of tumor-initiating cells that are particularly resilient, the researchers aim to develop therapies that can effectively eliminate these cells and prevent cancer relapse. The approach involves analyzing gene expression patterns and the role of epigenetic modifiers in maintaining these resistant cells. Patients may benefit from new treatment strategies that specifically target these hard-to-treat cancer cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma, particularly those who have shown resistance to standard therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with neuroblastoma who are in remission or have low-risk forms of the disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for pediatric neuroblastoma, reducing the chances of relapse and improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting epigenetic mechanisms in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

QUEENS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancers, neoplasm/cancer

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.