Using CAR T cell therapy to treat a type of brain tumor in children.

Defining a therapeutic platform for DIPG with mRNA CAR T cells and microglia inhibition

NIH-funded research Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-10902094

This study is exploring a new way to treat diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a tough brain tumor in kids, by using a special therapy that helps the immune system fight cancer, and it's being led by Dr. Jessica Foster at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChildren's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10902094 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new treatment approach for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a challenging pediatric brain tumor. The project aims to utilize chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, which harnesses the body's immune system to target and destroy cancer cells. The research involves advanced techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing to better understand the tumor environment and improve treatment efficacy. The project is led by Dr. Jessica Foster at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, in collaboration with a team of experienced physician-scientists.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) who are under 11 years old.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel and effective treatment option for children suffering from DIPG, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using CAR T cell therapy for other types of cancers, indicating potential for success in this novel application for DIPG.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.