Brain Tumor

Our researchers identify cells, genes and micro-environments in the laboratory that initiate and propagate malignant brain tumors so that we can identify treatment options. These projects include the study of:

• Glioma stem cells
• Neural stem cells
• Cancer vaccines
• Nanodrugs

Researchers study glioma stem cells (GSCs) in genetic human data and in test tubes and experimental models. These studies may lead to a paradigm shift in understanding the mechanisms and treatment of brain cancer. Currently, our research shows that GSCs have similar features to normal neural stem cells with genotypes and phenotypes that recapitulate tumors.

• Principal Investigator: John Yu, MD

We are developing a clinical protocol using neural stem cells derived from bone marrow to treat brain tumors in experimental models. Our recent discovery indicates gene delivery of bone marrow-derived progenitor and stem cells achieves positive therapeutic results in glioma models. In this study, we isolate and characterize bone marrow-derived neural progenitor and stem cells, which express chemokine CXC receptor 4 (CXCR4). The research shows that CXCR4 is required for chemotaxis and extracellular matrix invasion against a gradient of glioma soluble factors.

• Principal Investigator: John Yu, MD

Cedars-Sinai researchers are leaders in the development of dendritic cell (DC) vaccines to treat gliomas and prevent recurrences. Our basic research focuses on the design of DC vaccines, targeting not only brain tumor cells but cancer stem cells.

• Principal Investigator: John Yu, MD

Our research focuses on designing drugs to block gliomas and imaging technology to precisely diagnose brain tumors. This research includes these projects:

• Studying Polycefin^™ and delivery of this new class of drugs intravenously through the blood-brain barrier/brain tumor barrier (BBB/BTB) and cancer cell membrane to the cytoplasm of tumor cells using a monoclonal antibody or peptides. In experimental models, these drugs prove effective in treating gliomas, breast cancers, and brain metastasis from primary lung and breast tumors. This technology shows promise in blocking a combination of unique markers simultaneously, providing a synergistic effect.
• Investigating a natural biopolymer, polymalic acid, from the slime mold Physarum polycephalum as a multifunctional biodegradable and nontoxic molecular platform for a family of anti-cancer nanodrugs.
• Studying delivery of chemotherapy to brain tumors with the nanodrug camptothecin and immuno-chemotherapy in experimental models. So far investigators show delivery of these drugs through the BBB. They also selectively accumulate in sites of traumatic brain injuries.
  • Principal Investigator: John Yu, MD

Cedars-Sinai researchers participate in several efficacy and safety clinical trials testing potential vaccines and therapeutics targeting brain tumors and new imaging technology for accurate diagnosis. These clinical trials are:

• Levitra and its Effects on Brain Tumors
• Delineation of Brain Tumor using NASA UV Imager
• A Screening Protocol to Determine Potential eligibility for Patients for IRB Approved Vaccine Trials
• Pilot Study Levitra and Carboplatin
• CD 133 Dendritic Cell Vaccine in Recurrent Glioblastoma
• SL-701, a Subcutaneously Injected Multivalent Glioma-Associated Antigen Vaccine

• Yu Laboratory