Understanding how brain immune cells support brain tumors

Investigate and inhibit microglia support of brain metastases

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11178804

This study is looking at how special immune cells in the brain, called microglia, help support aggressive brain tumors, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how these cells interact with tumors to find new ways to slow down their growth.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11178804 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of microglia, the brain's immune cells, in supporting aggressive brain metastases. By analyzing human brain metastases and their surrounding tissue, the researchers aim to understand how these immune cells interact with tumors and contribute to their growth. The study employs advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing to gather detailed information about these interactions, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies to inhibit tumor progression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with brain metastases from various primary cancers.

Not a fit: Patients with primary brain tumors that do not involve metastasis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that target the immune environment of brain tumors, potentially improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune cells in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach may hold significant potential.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.