Proton versus x‑ray brain radiation: effects on thinking, symptoms, and daily life in children
Comparison of Symptom Burden/Toxicity, Neurocognitive Change, and Functional Outcomes in Pediatric Brain Tumor Patients Treated with Proton vs. Photon Radiotherapy.
Compares proton beam and conventional x‑ray brain radiation in children with brain tumors to find which approach leads to fewer side effects, better thinking skills, and improved daily functioning.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11177869 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project follows children with brain tumors from the start of radiation through long‑term survivorship to compare proton beam therapy (PBRT) with conventional x‑ray (photon) radiation. Doctors collect symptom and toxicity reports, give repeated cognitive tests, and measure everyday functioning at several scheduled visits. The study uses an accelerated longitudinal cohort design so children of different ages are followed over time to map changes in thinking and function more quickly. Results will directly compare symptom burden, neurocognitive trajectories, and functional independence between the two treatment types.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Children with brain tumors who are receiving or recently received cranial radiation (proton or photon) and who can complete follow‑up cognitive testing and functional assessments.
Not a fit: Children without brain tumors, adults, or patients unable to complete scheduled cognitive tests or long‑term follow‑up are unlikely to benefit directly from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could help reduce long‑term cognitive problems and improve day‑to‑day independence for childhood brain tumor survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Prior dosimetric and early clinical work suggests proton therapy can spare healthy brain tissue, but long‑term cognitive and functional advantages compared directly to photon therapy remain uncertain.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kahalley, Lisa Schum — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Kahalley, Lisa Schum
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.