Understanding how MYCN-driven neuroblastoma suppresses the immune system
Official title: Mechanisms of lmmunosuppression in MYCN-driven Neuroblastoma
Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11040751 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of cancer called neuroblastoma makes it hard for the immune system to fight it, using zebrafish to learn more about how certain factors can help attract immune cells that might actually help the tumor grow, with the goal of finding better ways to boost the immune response in kids with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $635,173 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS140967-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11040751 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old diagnosed with MYCN-driven neuroblastoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neuroblastoma not driven by MYCN or those over the age of 11 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which MYCN-driven neuroblastoma creates an environment that suppresses the immune response, making it difficult for the body to fight the tumor. The study utilizes a zebrafish model to mimic the disease and explore how certain factors, like CKLF1, attract immune cells that contribute to tumor growth and resistance to treatment. By understanding these processes, the research aims to identify potential strategies to enhance immune responses against neuroblastoma in children.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve immune responses in children with MYCN-driven neuroblastoma, potentially increasing survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting immunosuppressive mechanisms in tumors, suggesting that this approach could lead to meaningful advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University Medical Campus
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Feng, Hui — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Feng, Hui
Related research
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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.