Using verteporfin to target glioblastoma cells
Official title: Verteporfin as a YAP/TAZ inhibitor for treatment of glioblastoma
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11110350 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a drug called verteporfin, which is already approved for use, can help fight glioblastoma by targeting cancer cells without harming healthy brain cells, and it aims to eventually test this approach in patients with recurring glioblastoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $582,634 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126348-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11110350 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with recurrent glioblastoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with glioblastoma who are not eligible for treatment with verteporfin or those with other types of brain tumors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of verteporfin, an FDA-approved drug, to inhibit the YAP and TAZ proteins that drive the growth of glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain cancer. The approach focuses on how verteporfin can selectively induce cell death in glioblastoma cells while sparing normal brain cells. The research includes preclinical models and aims to translate findings into a phase 0 clinical trial to assess the drug's effectiveness in patients with recurrent glioblastoma.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for patients with glioblastoma, potentially improving survival rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results using similar approaches to target glioblastoma, indicating potential for success with this novel application of verteporfin.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Read, Renee D — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Read, Renee D
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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.