Global Brain Cancer Trial to Open for Children in Australia and New Zealand
Innovative international study aims to accelerate access to targeted treatments for high-grade childhood brain cancers
We are excited to announce the launch of a new clinical trial aimed at improving outcomes for children and young adults living with aggressive brain tumours. The PNOC028 trial, led by Professor Nick Gottardo and supported by funding from the Australian Government’s Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF), will begin in 2026 and run through to 2033.
This trial focuses on testing a cutting-edge immunotherapy treatment that uses specially prepared natural killer (NK) immune cells delivered directly into brain tumours. The approach is designed to overcome the challenges of traditional therapies, which often have limited success in treating these rare and aggressive cancers.
About the PNOC028 Trial
PNOC028 is an international, multi-centre Phase 1 study sponsored by the Pacific Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Consortium (PNOC), a global collaborative network dedicated to advancing treatments for children and young people with brain tumours.
The trial will involve approximately 24 children and young adults aged 1 to 39 years with recurrent or progressive malignant brain tumours. It will evaluate the safety, tolerability, and optimal dosing of modified NK cells administered directly into the tumour through an Ommaya reservoir – a device that allows precise delivery of treatment.
The NK cells used in this trial are grown and modified in the laboratory to improve their ability to survive and attack cancer cells, bypassing the blood-brain barrier to reach tumours more effectively. In addition to safety and dosing, researchers will assess the treatment’s impact on survival, immune cell function, and quality of life.
Funding and Collaboration
This important research is made possible by a $398,376.55 grant from the Medical Research Future Fund. The trial’s international sponsorship by PNOC highlights Australia’s vital role in global efforts to develop innovative therapies for paediatric brain cancer.
Lead Investigator’s Perspective
Professor Nick Gottardo, Lead Investigator, said:
“This significant funding from the Australian Government through the Medical Research Future Fund, together with international sponsorship from the Pacific Paediatric Neuro-Oncology Consortium, is a vital investment in developing new treatments for children and young adults facing aggressive brain cancers. It allows us to carefully test a promising immune-based therapy that delivers specialised cells directly to the tumour. This support strengthens Australia’s role in global childhood cancer research and brings hope that we can work toward safer, more targeted treatments for families.”
We look forward to keeping you updated on the progress of this groundbreaking trial and its potential to transform care for young patients facing brain cancer.