Using electrical fields to guide cancer cells in diffuse brain tumors

Tumor 'tractor beam' for diffuse cancers

['FUNDING_R01'] · EMORY UNIVERSITY · NIH-10906038

This study is exploring a new way to help treat tough brain tumors in kids, like DIPG, by using electrical fields to move cancer cells so they can be targeted more easily with treatments.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorEMORY UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10906038 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel method to treat diffuse cancers, particularly focusing on pediatric brain tumors like Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). The approach involves using electrical fields to guide and consolidate cancer cells, making them easier to target and treat. By studying the mechanisms of how these cells respond to electrical stimulation, researchers aim to identify new drug targets and improve treatment outcomes. The study will involve both laboratory and in vivo experiments to assess the effectiveness of this technique in moving cancer cells away from critical areas in the brain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pediatric patients diagnosed with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma or other diffuse brain tumors.

Not a fit: Patients with localized tumors that can be surgically removed or those with other types of cancers not involving diffuse characteristics may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for diffuse brain tumors, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of electrotaxis in cancer treatment is a novel approach, similar techniques have shown promise in other areas of cancer research, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

ATLANTA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Brain Cancer, Cancer Treatment

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.