Using high energy electron radiation to improve brain tumor treatment

Exploring synthetic lethality with a novel very high energy electron FLASH radiation beam

['FUNDING_R21'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10987986

This study is looking at a new way to use a special type of radiation therapy for brain tumors that could make the treatment work better by hitting the tumor harder while keeping healthy brain cells safe, and it's designed for patients who are facing brain tumor treatments.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10987986 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates a new approach to radiation therapy for brain tumors using a very high energy electron FLASH radiation beam. The goal is to enhance the effectiveness of treatment by increasing the damage to tumor cells while protecting normal brain cells from radiation effects. The study will explore the mechanisms behind this novel radiation technique and its potential to improve patient outcomes. By combining advanced radiation delivery with chemical therapies, the research aims to widen the therapeutic window for brain tumor treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with brain tumors who are undergoing radiation therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with non-brain tumors or those who are not candidates for radiation therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for brain tumors with fewer side effects for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While FLASH radiation therapy is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promising results in protecting normal tissues during radiation treatment.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, 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 →

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.