Using engineered neutrophils to treat brain tumors
Official title: CAR neutrophils produced in vivo to remodel tumor microenvironment and treat glioblastoma
Funded at Purdue University · NIH-11130336 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to treat glioblastoma, a tough type of brain cancer, by using specially designed immune cells that can reach the tumor directly in the brain, which could make treatments more effective for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Purdue University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Lafayette, United States) |
| Project start | April 21, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $641,936 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA293514-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11130336 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma who have limited treatment options due to the aggressive nature of the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not eligible for experimental therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel approach to treat glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain cancer, by utilizing engineered neutrophils that can cross the blood-brain barrier. The team aims to create these neutrophils in vivo, which means they will be produced directly within the body rather than through complex laboratory processes. By leveraging synthetic biology and advanced machine learning techniques, the researchers will investigate how to program these neutrophils to effectively target and attack tumor cells in the brain. This innovative method could enhance the delivery of anti-cancer therapies directly to the tumor site, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for glioblastoma, improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using engineered immune cells for cancer treatment, but this specific approach using neutrophils is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Purdue University
West Lafayette, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bao, Xiaoping — Purdue University
- Study coordinator: Bao, Xiaoping
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.