Basic & Translational Research
In the last several years, we have made great progress in our efforts to understand the biology of brain and spinal cord tumors. We participate in numerous studies to understand the molecular biomarkers of tumors. Many of these trials are centered at Lurie Children’s and the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. While these studies do not affect treatments at this time, they advance the scientific field of pediatric neuro-oncology and build the foundation for treatment-related advancements in the future.
Major concepts of our basic and translational research include:
- Molecular biology to understand behavior of tumors
- Biomarker studies to determine if we can monitor response to treatment using blood and spinal fluid
- Partnering with Northwestern University’s International Institute for Nanotechnology to identify novel ways to deliver therapies to tumors in the brain
- Understanding ways to use to the immune system to treat pediatric brain and spinal cord tumors