Araz Marachelian, MD, Pediatric Oncologist at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, discusses the New Approaches to Neuroblastoma (NANT) Consortium and its work in neuroblastoma.
Neuroblastoma is a rare cancer that largely afflicts infants or children. It develops from neuroblasts in the sympathetic nervous system.The tumor most often develops in the adrenal gland, but may develop in the neck, chest, or spinal cord. In most cases, the tumor has metastasized by the time it is diagnosed. Neuroblastoma can cause a variety of signs and symptoms, including a lump where the tumor is growing, bone pain, diarrhea, and various neurological symptoms.
The NANT consortium is a network of universities and children’s hospitals with research and treatment programs focusing on neuroblastoma. It was established with the goal of providing collaboration opportunities for investigators developing novel therapies for high-risk neuroblastoma. The organization currently has two open, ongoing clinical trials with plans to initiate a few more in early 2026.
NANT has been involved in several landmark studies pioneering the dosing, safety, and feasibility for MIBG therapy. They have also been involved in laboratory trials of lorlatinib precision therapy that has since been led to pediatric patient trials with the Children’s Oncology Group. Dr. Marachelian highlights the impact of these collaborations and their necessity in accelerating access to innovation that provide hope for patients and families.
The neuroblastoma treatment landscape is constantly evolving and researchers are working to improve more targeted immunotherapies that will improve survival outcomes for patients. Dr. Marachelian explains how NANT’s expansion into Europe and other countries are aiding in the faster development of novel therapies and clinical trials.
To learn more about neuroblastoma and other rare cancers, visit https://checkrare.com/diseases/cancers/