Developing Novel Therapeutic Approaches Targeting Macrophages in GBM

NIH RePORTER · NIH · R01 · $366,000 · view on reporter.nih.gov ↗

Abstract

Project Summary GBM remains the most lethal brain cancer with no effective therapeutics. It has been shown that the majority of stromal cells in GBM are tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), which contribute to tumor microenvironment heterogeneity and promote GBM progression. We have recently defined molecular pathways leading to macrophage recruitment and polarization. Our preliminary data showed that PTEN mutation/deletion in GBM triggers immune response by enhancing macrophage recruitment through LOX. In addition, we have also identified TBK1 as a key signaling node regulating macrophage polarization. Aim 1: we will elucidate the mechanism of LOX mediated macrophage recruitment in GBM; Aim 2: we will determine the molecular basis of TBK1 mediated macrophage polarization in GBM; Aim 3: we will perform preclinical trials targeting LOX and TBK1 in combination with standard of care and immune checkpoint blockade to develop novel therapeutic approach for GBM patients.

Key facts

NIH application ID
9878808
Project number
5R01CA231349-02
Recipient
UNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR
Principal Investigator
Y. Alan Wang
Activity code
R01
Funding institute
NIH
Fiscal year
2020
Award amount
$366,000
Award type
5
Project period
2019-04-01 → 2024-03-31