Understanding how myeloid cells produce creatine in glioblastoma

The hypoxic niche in glioblastoma is maintained by myeloid produced creatine

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11081627

This study is looking at how certain immune cells in glioblastoma tumors help produce a substance called creatine in low-oxygen areas, and how this affects the tumor's growth and ability to resist treatment, with the hope of finding better ways to treat glioblastoma.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11081627 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of myeloid cells in producing creatine within glioblastoma tumors, particularly in areas of low oxygen known as hypoxic niches. By analyzing both human and mouse models, the study aims to understand how this creatine production affects tumor growth and resistance to therapies. The researchers will explore the relationship between creatine transport and glioma stem cell characteristics, which are crucial for the tumor's survival and progression. This work could lead to new insights into how to effectively treat glioblastoma by targeting these metabolic interactions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with glioblastoma, particularly those experiencing treatment resistance.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not diagnosed with glioblastoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that improve outcomes for patients with glioblastoma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the metabolic interactions in glioblastoma, but this specific approach focusing on myeloid-derived creatine is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.