Understanding how brain tumors affect brain cell activity

Neural Activity Signatures of Tumor Infiltration in the Human Brain

['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-10942268

This study is looking at how brain tumors affect the activity of healthy brain cells, especially to learn more about why some patients with gliomas develop epilepsy, and it’s designed for people undergoing surgery for brain tumors.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10942268 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the interactions between brain tumor cells and healthy brain cells, focusing on how tumor infiltration alters neuron activity. By using advanced microelectrodes, the study aims to measure brain activity in real-time during surgery, providing insights into how tumors increase excitability in brain tissue. The goal is to understand the mechanisms behind tumor growth and its impact on brain function, particularly in relation to epilepsy development in glioma patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients diagnosed with gliomas or other brain tumors who may experience changes in brain activity or seizures.

Not a fit: Patients with brain tumors that do not exhibit significant infiltration or those who do not experience neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for brain cancer and epilepsy, enhancing patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While similar studies have been conducted in animal models, this research aims to provide novel insights into human brain activity, making it a pioneering effort in this area.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Brain Cancer

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.