Investigating brain network changes in children with brain tumors after radiation therapy
Official title: Assessing Radiation Induced Alterations in Resting State Brain Networks in Pediatric Brain Tumor Patients
Run by Washington University School of Medicine · NCT06185686 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 |
|---|---|
| Ages | 8 Years to 21 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 16 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Washington University School of Medicine Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (St Louis, Missouri) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 10, 2024 |
| Main results expected | July 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | July 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | July 17, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06185686 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with significant visual impairments, contraindications to MRI, or those requiring sedation for MRI scans may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: 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.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
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
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.