Using human brain organoids to study the effects of radiation on brain tissue and find ways to reduce damage.

Human brain organoids as a novel platform for evaluating effects of radiation in the CNS and screening for radiation mitigators

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11043329

This study is looking at how radiation therapy impacts healthy brain tissue using a special 3D model of the brain, and it aims to find ways to reduce any damage caused by the treatment for patients receiving radiation.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-11043329 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how radiation therapy affects normal brain tissue using a novel 3D brain organoid model that mimics the human brain environment. By exposing these organoids to radiation, the researchers aim to observe the resulting physiological changes and neuroinflammation. Additionally, the study will explore potential agents that could mitigate the harmful effects of radiation on brain tissue. This approach allows for a detailed understanding of radiation-induced brain injury and the development of strategies to protect patients undergoing treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults who have undergone or are scheduled to undergo radiation therapy for brain tumors.

Not a fit: Patients who have not received radiation therapy or those with conditions unrelated to brain injury may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments that minimize cognitive impairment and neurological damage in patients receiving radiation therapy for brain tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using organoid models to study various neurological conditions, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.
Conditions Acquired brain injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.