Investigating brain iron levels as a marker for cognitive issues in children who survived brain tumors
Brain iron accumulation as an in vivo quantifiable biomarker of neurocognitive dysfunction in pediatric brain tumor survivors
This study is looking at kids who survived brain tumors and had radiation treatment, to see how it affects their thinking skills by checking for iron buildup in their brains, which might help us find ways to support their cognitive health and improve their lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hospital of Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10448295 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on pediatric brain tumor survivors who have undergone cranial radiation therapy, a common treatment that can lead to neurocognitive deficits. By using advanced MR imaging techniques, specifically quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM), the study aims to measure iron accumulation in the brain, which may serve as a biomarker for cognitive dysfunction. The research will collect both imaging and neuropsychological data to understand the long-term effects of radiation therapy on cognitive health. This could help in developing targeted interventions to improve the quality of life for these survivors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children who have survived brain tumors and received cranial radiation therapy.
Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone cranial radiation therapy or do not have a history of brain tumors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of cognitive impairments in pediatric brain tumor survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in using iron accumulation as a biomarker in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- Children's Hospital of Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tamrazi, Benita — Children's Hospital of Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Tamrazi, Benita
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.