Using engineered T cells to treat a type of brain tumor in children
GENETICALLY ENGINEERED T CELLS FOR DIPG
This study is testing a new treatment for children with a tough brain tumor called DIPG by using specially modified immune cells that can find and attack the tumor, with the hope of making the treatment work better for these young patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. Jude Children's Research Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10889173 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new type of treatment for diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a challenging brain tumor primarily affecting children. The approach involves creating genetically modified T cells that can specifically target and attack tumor cells by recognizing a unique protein found on their surface. By enhancing the effectiveness of these T cells and overcoming obstacles that limit their function, the researchers aim to improve treatment outcomes for patients with DIPG. The study will utilize mouse models that closely resemble human disease to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this innovative therapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) who have limited treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who do not have DIPG may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new, effective treatment option for children suffering from DIPG, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While CAR T-cell therapy has shown promise in treating other cancers, this specific approach targeting DIPG is novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
Memphis, United States
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital — Memphis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krenciute, Giedre — St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
- Study coordinator: Krenciute, Giedre
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 below.