Understanding how radiation causes brain tissue damage to improve treatment
Characterization of the cellular mechanisms of radiation induced brain necrosis for clinical intervention
This study is looking at how radiation therapy can harm healthy brain tissue in cancer survivors, especially focusing on a serious condition called necrosis, and aims to create safer treatment options that protect the brain while still fighting tumors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10891587 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the harmful effects of radiation therapy on brain tissue, particularly focusing on necrosis, which can lead to severe complications for cancer survivors. By developing advanced models using human brain organoids and rodent models, the study aims to identify the specific physical factors of proton therapy that contribute to necrosis. The goal is to design safer proton therapy treatments that minimize damage to healthy brain tissue while effectively targeting tumors. Additionally, the research will explore the molecular mechanisms behind necrosis to better understand how radiation affects cell death.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have undergone radiation therapy for brain tumors and are experiencing or at risk of developing necrosis.
Not a fit: Patients who have not received radiation therapy or those with conditions unrelated to brain tumors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer radiation treatments that reduce the risk of brain necrosis and improve the quality of life for cancer survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced modeling techniques to understand radiation effects, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grosshans, David R — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Grosshans, David R
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.