Using a modified herpes virus to treat brain tumors in children

Ph1 Study of HSV G207 in Pediatric Malignant Cerebellar Tumors IND 16294 01/05/18.

NIH-funded research University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-10469975

This study is testing a new treatment for kids with brain tumors using a specially modified virus that helps target and destroy cancer cells while protecting healthy brain tissue, aiming to offer a safer option than surgery or chemotherapy.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10469975 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new treatment for pediatric malignant cerebellar tumors using an engineered herpes simplex virus (oHSV G207). The approach aims to selectively target and kill cancer cells while sparing healthy brain tissue, which is crucial for minimizing long-term side effects in children. By stimulating the immune system to fight the tumor, this therapy could provide a safer alternative to traditional treatments like surgery and chemotherapy. The study builds on previous Phase I trials that have shown promise in using this virus for brain cancer treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with malignant cerebellar tumors who have not responded to conventional therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with non-malignant brain tumors or those who have already received extensive treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a safer and more effective treatment option for children with malignant brain tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous trials using oncolytic viruses for brain tumors have shown promising results, indicating potential for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.