How cancer treatments affect brain function in children and adults

Molecular and cellular mechanisms of neuronal damage caused by anticancer therapies

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11034124

This study is looking at how radiation treatment for cancer affects brain health and thinking skills in both kids and adults, with the goal of finding ways to help cancer survivors keep their minds sharp.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11034124 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the long-term effects of cancer treatments, specifically CNS radiotherapy, on brain function in both children and adults. It focuses on understanding how radiation impacts neuronal health and cognitive abilities, particularly looking at changes in neuronal structure and function. By examining the mechanisms of neuronal damage, the study aims to identify potential interventions that could mitigate cognitive decline in cancer survivors. The research utilizes a combination of cellular and molecular techniques to explore these effects in detail.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults who have received CNS radiotherapy as part of their cancer treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone CNS radiotherapy or those with other unrelated cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preserving cognitive function in cancer survivors who undergo radiotherapy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the mechanisms of radiation-induced cognitive decline can lead to effective interventions, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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.
Conditions Acquired brain injuryAffective Disorders
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.