Using modified immune cells to treat brain tumors

Clinical Evaluation of Chlorotoxin-redirected Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T cells for Treatment of Glioblastoma

NIH-funded research Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope · NIH-10827511

This study is testing a new treatment for glioblastoma, an aggressive brain tumor, by using special immune cells that are enhanced with a part of scorpion venom to help your body fight the tumor more effectively while protecting healthy cells.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBeckman Research Institute/city of Hope NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Duarte, United States)
Project IDNIH-10827511 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new treatment for glioblastoma, a type of aggressive brain tumor, using modified immune cells known as CAR T cells that are redirected by a peptide from scorpion venom called chlorotoxin. The approach aims to improve patient outcomes by targeting the unique characteristics of glioblastoma tumors while minimizing effects on healthy cells. The study builds on previous findings that show the safety and potential effectiveness of CAR T cell therapy in treating brain cancers. Patients may receive these modified cells to help their immune system better attack the tumor.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with glioblastoma who have not responded adequately to standard treatments.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective treatment option for patients with glioblastoma, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using CAR T cell therapy for brain tumors, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Duarte, 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.
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.