Using focused ultrasound to deliver genes for treating brain tumors
Official title: Engineering Focused Ultrasound-Mediated Gene Delivery Platforms for Glioblastoma
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10998940 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to help deliver treatment directly to glioblastoma tumors in the brain using focused ultrasound and special nanoparticles, making it easier for patients to receive effective gene therapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $40,769 |
| NIH project number | 1F31CA295067-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10998940 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma who are seeking new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not eligible for gene therapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative gene delivery methods to treat glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain tumor. The approach involves using focused ultrasound to enhance the delivery of therapeutic genes across the blood-brain barrier, which is a significant challenge in treating this condition. By creating specialized nanoparticles that can better target and penetrate tumor tissues, the research aims to improve the effectiveness of gene therapy for patients with glioblastoma. The study will explore how these new delivery platforms can increase the accumulation of therapeutic agents directly in the tumor.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for glioblastoma, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using nanoparticles for gene delivery in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Debski, Anna Colleen — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Debski, Anna Colleen
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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.