Understanding diffuse midline glioma in children

Research Project 1: Diffuse Midline Glioma

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · DANA-FARBER CANCER INST · NIH-11178330

This project looks at why radiation stops working over time in children with diffuse midline glioma by comparing tumor samples taken before and after radiation.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDANA-FARBER CANCER INST (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11178330 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

We'll compare tumor samples taken before and after radiation using single-cell genetic testing and other laboratory methods to see how cancer cells and the surrounding tissue change. The researchers will focus on whether different tumor cells use DNA repair pathways differently, which might let some cells survive radiation. Most of the work analyzes tissue and molecular data rather than testing new drugs directly on patients. Findings could point to markers to watch during treatment or new molecular targets for future therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Children with diffuse midline glioma who can provide tumor tissue (biopsy or surgical samples) or whose care includes radiation at participating centers are the primary candidates for involvement.

Not a fit: Adults with other tumor types, patients who cannot safely provide tumor tissue, or those who do not receive radiation are unlikely to be directly eligible or to receive immediate benefit.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal why tumors resist radiation and suggest ways to make radiation more effective or guide new targeted treatments.

How similar studies have performed: Previous single-cell genomics studies have shown developmental diversity within DMG cells, but using this approach to link DNA repair differences to radiation failure is a newer idea supported mainly by early preliminary data.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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: Cancer Biology, Cancers

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.