Funded Grants

SEED GRANT

Grantee: The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Project Lead: Eran Blacher, PHD
Grant Title: Gut-derived immune cells drive glioma progression in aging: from mouse models to human validation
Program Area: Glioma
Grant Type: UKF Seed Grant
Year Awarded: 2025-26
Amount: $50,000
Duration: 1 year

Summary: Gliomas are deadly brain cancers, in which the immune system in our gut might play a surprising role in how these tumors grow. This project explores how immune cells from the gut might travel to the brain and influence gliomas, possibly even speeding up tumor growth. It's a surprising idea, but it matters because gliomas are so hard to treat, especially in older patients who often have a weaker gut lining and more inflammation. If this gut–brain link is clinically meaningful, it could open up new ways to fight glioma. For example, clinicians might one day treat patients by strengthening gut health or adjusting gut bacteria to slow down brain tumors. Our research could also help physicians spot aggressive tumors earlier by revealing gut-related warning signs.