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Brain and Spinal Tumors Research

At Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, we take a collaborative and comprehensive approach to brain and spinal tumor research and clinical trials.

Researching Brain and Spinal Tumors Developing Novel Therapies at Winship

Our multidisciplinary teams conduct groundbreaking brain and spine cancer research.

Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University is contributing to both preclinical and clinical trial breakthroughs in a variety of ways, including:

  • Analyzing a brain tumor’s genetic makeup rather than just relying on their microscopic appearance, which will advance our understanding of tumor behavior.
  • Identifying central nervous system (CNS)-penetrating drugs that can help improve treatment.
  • Testing different combinations of drugs that may impact treatment as well as improve quality of life for people undergoing brain cancer treatment.
  • Using novel methods to treat tumors, including laser therapy, implantable radiation, and highly focused proton therapy.

People travel from all over the state and region to receive care at Winship because of our multidisciplinary teams, state-of-the-art technology, advanced treatment methods and access to clinical trials. Learning you have a brain or spine tumor is a scary and life-changing experience. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized care plan that is specific to your type of brain tumor. We are with you every step of the way.

Types of Brain and Spinal Tumor Research

Researching brain cancer gives us crucial insight into the disease and enables our teams to improve survival rates. Winship’s talented roster of neurologists, neuro-oncologists, radiation oncologists and researchers are paving the way forward in how brain cancer is diagnosed and treated.

One area of scientific research that Winship has contributed to is redefining how brain tumors are classified on the diagnostic level. In a groundbreaking study on diffuse gliomas, Winship researchers collaborated with The Cancer Genome Atlas Research Network in using biomarkers — molecular characteristics — to classify and understand diffuse gliomas. By analyzing the tumors’ genetic makeup, rather than the traditional method of just relying on a tumor’s microscopic appearance, physicians can more accurately classify and grade the tumor. This allows your care team to better predict the tumor’s behavior and whether a patient requires more aggressive therapy or is sensitive to specific chemotherapies. This innovative approach is changing the way patients are diagnosed and treated moving forward.

Cutting-edge brain and spine cancer research focused on precision medicine, immunotherapy, genetic testing and radiation-based therapies is helping us discover and deliver more effective and targeted treatment options with fewer side effects.

Brain and Spinal Tumors Clinical Trials

In addition to standard therapy, many Winship patients with brain or spine tumors are eligible to participate in a clinical trial. Clinical trials are controlled studies that test new interventions on a disease, such as brain or spine cancer. They offer participants early access to novel treatments that are not yet commercially available.

Participating in Clinical Research

Not only does Winship have access to national clinical trials, but we also have clinical trials that are being driven by our own researchers and investigators.

As a research center, our physicians will make every effort to match you with a clinical trial that targets your unique cancer. It’s best if you enroll from the beginning, so let your doctor know on your first visit if you’re interested in learning more about a clinical trial. Most clinical trials are supplemental, meaning you’ll still receive the standard therapy in addition to any treatment being studied.

Support for Clinical Trial Participation

Winship conducts brain and spinal tumor research at the following locations:

We welcome trial participants from all over Georgia and beyond. Talk with your doctor about whether you are eligible to participate in a clinical trial. Our supportive oncology team can assist you with services, such as finding affordable accommodations near Winship for the duration of your clinical trial.