Studying Proton Radiation Effects on Brain Function in Children and Young Adults with Primary Brain Tumors

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying children and young adults aged 8 to 21 with newly diagnosed primary brain tumors who will undergo proton radiation therapy. The study aims to understand how radiation affects brain resting state networks linked to higher-level thinking and cognition, to identify changes that may lead to cognitive decline. This research responds to the challenge that while survival rates have improved, many survivors face significant cognitive difficulties. Participants will be observed through cognitive testing using the NIH Toolbox Cognitive Battery and a Novel Cognitive Measure, along with resting state MRI scans taken before the end of radiation therapy and about 12 months after treatment completion. The study focuses on measuring radiations impact on brain network connectivity and cognitive function over a one-year follow-up period. During the study, participants will undergo cognitive assessments and MRI scans at baseline and at one year after radiation therapy. Researchers will analyze changes in brain connectivity and correlate these with radiation dose and cognitive performance. The study is observational and does not involve administering treatments beyond standard proton radiation therapy. Participation will last about one year, with monitoring focused on brain function and cognitive outcomes.

Radiation Induced Alterations in Resting State Brain Networks in Pediatric Brain Tumor Patients