Actively Recruiting
Somatic Mosaicism in Twins Discordant for Childhood Cancer: a Pilot Study
Led by Children's Oncology Group · Updated on 2025-12-16
50
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
52 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
C
Children's Oncology Group
Lead Sponsor
N
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are studying somatic mosaicism, or genetic differences within the body, in twins who are discordant for childhood central nervous system (CNS) tumors. This observational pilot study focuses on same-sex twins identified through the Children's Oncology Group's Project: EveryChild registry to explore why one twin may develop a CNS tumor while the other does not. The study aims to better understand genetic factors linked to childhood brain tumors. Participants include twins where one has been newly diagnosed with or has recurrent CNS tumors. Blood and saliva samples are collected from these twins, and DNA sequencing is performed on a panel of 94 known cancer-associated genes. The study also compares genetic mutations in pre- and post-treatment blood samples from some patients to ensure therapy does not affect the findings. Questionnaire data on health, demographics, environmental exposures, cancer family history, and birth characteristics are also gathered. During the study, twins with CNS tumors provide blood and saliva samples at enrollment. Researchers analyze these samples to compare the prevalence of somatic mosaicism in the twins over a period of up to 18 months. The study collects information through questionnaires and reviews mutation profiles to understand genetic differences related to tumor development. Participation involves informed consent and assent for children aged 8 to 17, with compliance to all regulatory requirements for human studies.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Somatic Mosaicism in Twins Discordant for Childhood Cancer
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Newly diagnosed patient with CNS tumor or have recurrent disease and enrolled on APEC14B1.
- Patient must have same sex twin.
- Patients must be diagnosed at < 19 years of age at the time of diagnosis.
- A family is eligible 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.
You will not qualify if you...
- Does not meet inclusion criteria related to CNS tumor diagnosis or twin status.
- Unable to provide informed consent or assent as required.
- Does not comply with institutional, FDA, or NCI requirements for human studies.
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - At enrollment
Participants provide blood and saliva samples and complete a brief questionnaire to assess health history, demographics, environmental exposures, family history of cancer, and birth characteristics.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Up to 18 months
Participants are observed over time to compare the prevalence of somatic mosaicism and mutation profiles in DNA samples.
Follow-up contacts as needed
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, 55455
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
J
Jenny Poynter, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Masking
N/A
Allocation
N/A
Model
N/A
Primary Purpose
N/A
Number of Arms
1
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