Using stem cells to improve treatment for brain tumors resistant to immunotherapy

Hematopoietic stem cells overcome treatment resistance to PD-1 blockade against brain tumors

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA · NIH-10886750

This study is looking at how special blood stem cells can help make a type of cancer treatment, called PD-1 checkpoint inhibitors, work better for people with brain tumors like glioblastoma and medulloblastoma, with the hope of improving survival and treatment results.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10886750 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how hematopoietic stem cells can enhance the effectiveness of PD-1 checkpoint inhibitors in treating brain tumors, particularly glioblastoma and medulloblastoma. The approach involves transferring these stem cells alongside immunotherapy to boost the immune response against tumors. By studying the interactions between stem cells and immune cells in the tumor environment, the research aims to identify mechanisms that improve anti-tumor immunity and overcome treatment resistance. Patients may benefit from this innovative combination therapy that seeks to improve survival rates and treatment outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with recurrent glioblastoma or medulloblastoma who have not responded well to existing treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with brain tumors that are not recurrent or those who have not been diagnosed with glioblastoma or medulloblastoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with aggressive brain tumors, potentially improving survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches with stem cells and immunotherapy, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

GAINESVILLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Brain Cancer

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.