If you are not a researcher looking for information about Neuro-Oncology, please head to this page to learn about to learn about diagnosis, research, and treatment options.

Neuro-Oncology

This program is dedicated to transforming the clinical trajectory of these devastating diseases through pioneering research. With deep roots in collaboration, it brings together experts from across the CU Anschutz Medical Campus, including pediatric oncology, neurosurgery, cancer biology, and cell and developmental biology.

At the heart of the program is a robust tumor bank housing more than 1,600 patient samples—many of which have undergone extensive molecular characterization. This biorepository serves as the foundation for three primary areas of research strength:

1. Epigenetic Regulation and Resistance Mechanisms
   Investigators explore how epigenetic changes contribute to brain tumor development and therapy resistance in these developmentally driven cancers.
2. Immune Dysregulation and Immunotherapy
   Researchers examine the role of immune system disruption in brain tumors and are advancing innovative immunotherapeutic strategies to counter it.
3. Target Discovery and Preclinical Development
   The team is actively identifying novel therapeutic targets and generating the preclinical data needed to support new clinical trials.

The program employs cutting-edge molecular, genomic, and imaging technologies, often in collaboration with other CU Cancer Center programs such as genomics and small animal imaging. These partnerships have already led to the launch of several clinical trials directly informed by laboratory discoveries.

Many of the program’s researchers are physician-scientists, ensuring seamless integration between research insights and patient care. The program receives major funding from the National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Department of Defense, and the American Cancer Society, with additional local support from the Cancer League of Colorado. The Morgan Adams Foundation continues to be a cornerstone of this work.

With a strong commitment to collaboration, discovery, and clinical impact, the Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program is advancing the science that shapes tomorrow’s treatments.

→ A grant from the Team Jack Foundation will bring CD99-targeted CAR T-cell therapy to children with a deadly form of brain cancer.