Using focused ultrasound to improve drug delivery for brain tumors
Focused ultrasound pre-conditioning for augmented nanoparticle penetration in infiltrative gliomas
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA · NIH-10782449
This study is exploring a new way to help chemotherapy work better for people with aggressive brain tumors like glioblastoma by using focused ultrasound to open up the blood-brain barrier, allowing special nanoparticles filled with the medicine to reach the tumor more effectively.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10782449 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new method to enhance the delivery of chemotherapy drugs to infiltrative gliomas, particularly glioblastoma, which is a highly aggressive brain tumor. The approach involves using focused ultrasound to temporarily open the blood-brain barrier, allowing specially designed nanoparticles loaded with chemotherapy to penetrate the tumor more effectively. By combining MRI guidance with this ultrasound technique, the researchers aim to target the delivery of these drugs precisely to the tumor site, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients. The study will develop and test next-generation nanoparticles and ultrasound protocols to maximize drug delivery efficiency.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with infiltrative gliomas, particularly those with grade IV glioblastoma who have limited treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with non-infiltrative brain tumors or those who are not eligible for chemotherapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy for patients with glioblastoma, potentially extending survival and enhancing quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results using focused ultrasound for drug delivery in other contexts, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA — CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PRICE, RICHARD J. — UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA
- Study coordinator: PRICE, RICHARD J.
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.