Finding new ways to identify and treat cognitive problems caused by chemotherapy in cancer survivors.

Identification of novel biomarkers and therapeutic strategies in chemobrain.

NIH-funded research Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11125914

This study is looking at how chemotherapy can affect thinking and memory in children who have survived cancer, and it aims to find ways to predict who might have these issues and develop new treatments to help them feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11125914 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how chemotherapy can lead to cognitive impairment, known as chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment (CICI), particularly in children who survive cancer. The team aims to identify biomarkers that can predict which patients are more susceptible to these cognitive issues and to develop new therapeutic strategies to mitigate these effects. By studying the role of a specific enzyme, PARP1, and its impact on neuronal health, the researchers hope to find effective treatments that can improve the quality of life for cancer survivors. The approach includes both identifying biological markers and testing new drugs that could help protect against cognitive decline.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and young adults who have undergone chemotherapy for cancer and are experiencing cognitive difficulties.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone chemotherapy or those with cognitive impairments from non-cancer-related causes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification and treatment options for cognitive impairments in cancer survivors, significantly improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in identifying biomarkers and therapeutic strategies for cognitive impairments related to chemotherapy, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Newark, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.