Using engineered cells to deliver a virus that targets brain tumors

Encapsulated Cell Based Oncolytic Virus Therapy for Brain Tumors

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11130597

This study is testing a new treatment for glioblastoma, a tough brain tumor, by using specially designed stem cells to deliver a virus that helps kill any leftover cancer cells after surgery, and it's aimed at patients who have just had surgery for this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11130597 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel therapy for glioblastoma, the most aggressive type of brain tumor, by using engineered stem cells to deliver an oncolytic herpes simplex virus (oHSV) directly to tumor sites after surgical removal. The approach aims to enhance the effectiveness of the virus in killing remaining cancer cells and stimulating the immune system to fight the tumor. By encapsulating the virus within stem cells, the therapy seeks to improve delivery and reduce immune evasion, potentially leading to better patient outcomes. Patients who have undergone surgery for glioblastoma may be eligible for this innovative treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma who have recently undergone surgical tumor removal.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who have not had surgery for glioblastoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve treatment outcomes for patients with glioblastoma by enhancing tumor targeting and immune response.

How similar studies have performed: Previous clinical trials using oncolytic viruses have shown promise in treating glioblastoma, indicating that this approach may build on existing successful strategies.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Conditions anti-cancer therapy
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.