Exploring genetic differences in twins with childhood brain tumors
Somatic Mosaicism in Twins Discordant for Childhood Cancer: a Pilot Study
This study looks at the genetic differences in identical twins who have childhood brain tumors to see how these differences might affect their cancer.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | N/A to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Children's Oncology Group Research network |
| Locations | 1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota) |
| Trial ID | NCT06054295 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates the genetic factors contributing to discordance in childhood central nervous system (CNS) tumors among same-sex twins. It aims to analyze blood and saliva DNA samples from 25 pairs of monozygotic twins to assess the prevalence of somatic mosaicism in cancer-associated genes. The study will also compare mutation profiles in pre- and post-treatment samples to ensure that observed differences are not influenced by cancer therapies. The research is conducted through the Children's Oncology Group's Project: EveryChild registry.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include same-sex twins diagnosed with CNS tumors before the age of 19, whether newly diagnosed or with recurrent disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not part of a twin pair or those diagnosed with tumors unrelated to CNS will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of genetic predispositions to CNS tumors, potentially leading to improved prevention and treatment strategies.
How similar studies have performed: While the exploration of somatic mosaicism in twins is a relatively novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in understanding genetic factors in cancer.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Newly diagnosed patient with CNS tumor or have recurrent disease and enrolled on APEC14B1. * Patient must have same sex twin. Note: (history of) treatment on a COG therapeutic trial is not required. * Patients must be diagnosed at \< 19 years of age at the time of diagnosis. * A family is eligible to participate if the twin with the CNS tumor is deceased but has a blood sample banked through APEC14B1. * All patients and/or their parents or legal guardians must provide informed consent. Assent will be obtained for participants between the ages of 8-17 years. * All institutional, FDA, and NCI requirements for human studies must be met.
Where this trial is running
Minneapolis, Minnesota
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Jenny Poynter, PhD
- Email: poynt006@umn.edu
- Phone: (612) 625-4232
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.