Effects of methotrexate on brain function in young cancer survivors
Methotrexate effects on synaptic plasticity: a path to female resiliency to chemotherapy-induced cognitive deficits
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI · NIH-11143985
This study is looking at how the chemotherapy drug methotrexate affects brain function and thinking skills in children with leukemia, especially to understand why some survivors have trouble with their thinking later on, and it aims to find ways to help protect their brain health in the future.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CINCINNATI, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11143985 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how methotrexate, a common chemotherapy drug for treating acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children, affects brain function and cognitive abilities. It focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind cognitive deficits that some survivors experience, particularly looking at changes in brain cell communication and gene expression. By using a mouse model that mimics early life exposure to cancer and chemotherapy, the study aims to uncover the differences in how male and female brains respond to methotrexate. The findings could lead to better strategies for protecting cognitive health in young cancer survivors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents aged 0-20 who have been treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone treatment with methotrexate or who are not survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help develop interventions to prevent cognitive deficits in children treated with methotrexate for leukemia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the effects of chemotherapy on brain function can lead to significant improvements in patient care, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
CINCINNATI, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI — CINCINNATI, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: REYES, TERESA M — UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI
- Study coordinator: REYES, TERESA M
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.