Investigating brain changes after radiation therapy using PET imaging
Official title: PET Biomarker for synaptic density changes after radiation therapy
Funded at Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-10850238 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how radiation therapy for brain tumors might change the connections in the brain that help us think, using a special imaging technique to see these changes in both kids and adults, with the hope of finding ways to help improve thinking skills after treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 3, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $737,118 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA275767-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10850238 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include both children and adults who are undergoing radiation therapy for central nervous system malignancies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not receiving radiation therapy or those with conditions unrelated to cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to explore how radiation therapy affects synaptic density in the brain, which is crucial for cognitive function. Using a specialized imaging technique called positron emission tomography (PET), the study will track changes in synaptic density in both children and adults who have undergone targeted radiation therapy for brain tumors. By correlating these changes with cognitive outcomes, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind cognitive decline post-treatment. The ultimate goal is to identify potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate these cognitive impairments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent cognitive decline in patients receiving radiation therapy for brain tumors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using PET imaging to study brain changes, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aboian, Mariam — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Aboian, Mariam
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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.