Dichloroacetate (DCA) has been used for many years as an investigational drug to treat children born with mitochondrial disorders. Through its inhibition of Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Kinase (PDK), a key component of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, DCA has shown promise in facilitating oxidative phosphorylation in cell mitochondria.  Recently, DCA has received more attention as a possible treatment for numerous forms of cancer.  In this research highlight, we will discuss a paper from Dunbar et al. in which a Phase 1 trial for DCA was run in adults with recurrent malignant brain tumors (RMBTs). These tumors often carry a poor prognosis. As DCA has the ability to pass through the blood-brain barrier, it is being investigated as a possible treatment for RMBTs. The goal of the trial was to establish dose ranges that are safe to administer to patients with recurrent malignant gliomas.