Using neural stem cells to deliver viruses that target and kill brain tumors.
Official title: Neural Stem Cell Based Virotherapy for Malignant Glioma
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10898585 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to treat malignant glioma, a tough type of brain cancer, by using special cells to deliver viruses that can help kill the cancer and boost the immune system, and it's for patients looking for new options to improve their survival.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | August 17, 2018 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $287,309 |
| NIH project number | 5P50CA221747-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-10898585 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with malignant glioma who have not responded well to conventional therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of brain tumors or those who are not eligible for invasive procedures may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new treatment for malignant glioma, a type of brain cancer that is difficult to treat. The approach involves using neural stem cells to deliver oncolytic viruses directly to the tumor, which can selectively kill cancer cells and stimulate the immune system. The researchers have previously conducted a Phase 1 trial that demonstrated the safety and feasibility of this method, and they are now planning a Phase 2 trial to assess its effectiveness in improving patient survival. The study aims to optimize the delivery system to ensure that the treatment can be administered multiple times and that the neural stem cells remain viable.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel and effective treatment option for patients with malignant glioma, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using oncolytic virotherapy have shown promise in treating various cancers, indicating that this approach may be effective for glioma as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lesniak, Maciej S — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Lesniak, Maciej S
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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.