Investigating brain network changes in children with brain tumors after radiation therapy
Assessing Radiation Induced Alterations in Resting State Brain Networks in Pediatric Brain Tumor Patients
This study is trying to see how radiation therapy changes brain connections in children with brain tumors and how those changes might affect their thinking skills after treatment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 16 (estimated) |
| Ages | 8 Years to 21 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Washington University School of Medicine Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (St Louis, Missouri) |
| Trial ID | NCT06185686 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to explore how radiation therapy affects resting state brain networks in pediatric patients diagnosed with primary brain tumors. By utilizing functional imaging techniques, the study will assess alterations in brain connectivity that may correlate with cognitive decline following treatment. The research focuses on understanding the dose-dependent effects of proton therapy on cognitive functions, which is crucial for improving long-term outcomes for survivors. Participants will undergo cognitive testing and resting state MRI to gather comprehensive data on their brain function post-therapy.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children and young adults aged 8 to 21 with newly diagnosed primary brain tumors who will receive proton radiation therapy.
Not a fit: Patients with significant visual impairments, contraindications to MRI, or those requiring sedation for MRI scans may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better predictive models for cognitive decline in pediatric brain tumor survivors, ultimately improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on cognitive outcomes in pediatric brain tumor patients, this specific focus on resting state brain networks following proton therapy is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Between 8 and 21 years of age, inclusive * Newly diagnosed primary brain tumor of any location and any histology that will be treated with proton radiation therapy * Life expectancy of at least one year * Able to understand and willing to consent or assent to the research proposed (or that of a legally authorized representative, if applicable), along with consent of legal guardian(s) if applicable Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of visual impairment to an extent that the patient is unable to complete the computer testing * Contraindication to MRI scan (i.e. due to cardiac pacemaker) * Presence of programmable shunt or dental braces * Requires sedation for MRI scans
Where this trial is running
St Louis, Missouri
- Washington University School of Medicine/Saint Louis Children's Hospital — St Louis, Missouri, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Stephanie Perkins, M.D. — Washington University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Stephanie Perkins, M.D.
- Email: sperkins@wustl.edu
- Phone: 314-747-4405
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.