Analyzing stored tumor samples from young patients with brain tumors
Molecular and Histopathologic Characterization of Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumors, Choroid Plexus Carcinomas, Ependymomas, Medulloblastoma HGNET, CNS Embryonal Tumors and Gliomas of the Pediatric CNS
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital · NCT00897286
This study looks at stored tumor samples from young patients with brain tumors to see if they can find genetic clues that help understand how these tumors behave and respond to treatments.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 500 (estimated) |
| Ages | N/A to 39 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Memphis, Tennessee) |
| Trial ID | NCT00897286 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study focuses on the analysis of stored tumor samples from young patients diagnosed with various types of brain tumors, including medulloblastomas and atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors. The aim is to molecularly characterize patient-derived models and identify genetic and epigenetic changes that occur in these tumors. By utilizing advanced DNA, RNA, and epigenome analysis techniques, researchers will compare these models with the original tumors to gain insights into tumor behavior and treatment responses. This research will contribute to a better understanding of pediatric brain tumors and may lead to the development of targeted therapies.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are young patients under 40 years old with primary, progressive, or recurrent central nervous system tumors.
Not a fit: Patients diagnosed with tumors outside the central nervous system or those aged 40 years and older at diagnosis may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the understanding of pediatric brain tumors and lead to improved treatment strategies for affected children.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in utilizing patient-derived models to understand tumor biology, making this approach promising yet still evolving.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria * Tumor may be primary, progressive or recurrent CNS tumor including brain and/or spine. All tumor types will be included with a focus on medulloblastoma, HGNET, CNS embryonal tumors, gliomas, ependymoma, CPC and ATRT tumors. Low grade gliomas are currently very challenging to culture and implant but if techniques mature these will also be included. Although rare, patients with ATRT may present with a primary renal and CNS tumor. In these instances samples will be collected from both the kidney and CNS tumor for analysis if available. * Tumor may be collected at surgery prior to histologic confirmation * Age less than 40 years at the time of initial diagnosis. * Enrollment in the current version of the institution's banking protocol Exclusion Criteria * Diagnosis of tumor outside the central nervous system. * Age greater than or equal to 40 years at the time of diagnosis
Where this trial is running
Memphis, Tennessee
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital — Memphis, Tennessee, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Amar Gajjar, MD — St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
- Study coordinator: Tabatha E. Doyle, RN
- Email: tabatha.doyle@stjude.org
- Phone: 901-595-2544
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Brain and Central Nervous System Tumors, childhood atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor, childhood choroid plexus tumor, childhood medulloblastoma, recurrent childhood medulloblastoma, childhood infratentorial ependymoma, childhood supratentorial ependymoma, recurrent childhood ependymoma