Neuro-Oncology
Our ability to effectively diagnose and manage brain and other nervous system tumors is heavily dependent on advances in the basic molecular biology and genetics of these cancers. We have assembled a collaborative group of nationally renowned scientists with the goal of improving the current diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic management of patients with brain tumors and nervous system cancers.
The Neuro-Oncology Program at the Siteman Cancer Center is a multidisciplinary research team comprised of scientists and clinicians focused on tumors that affect the nervous system, including gliomas (e.g. astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, ependymomas), meningiomas (tumors of the lining surrounding the brain), pediatric tumors (e.g. pilocytic astrocytomas, medulloblastomas, PNETs, atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors) and peripheral nerve tumors (schwannomas, neurofibromas and malignant peripheral sheath tumors).
Our research group has developed a multifaceted approach to these tumors through (1) an analysis of operative tumor specimens to identify critical genetic events important for tumor formation and progression; (2) a detailed characterization of specific genes and cellular pathways involved in tumor formation and progression; and (3) drug discovery and evaluation of new potential targeted therapies using small animal models of nervous system tumors.
Identification of the critical genetic events important for nervous system tumor formation and progression. In order to develop rational and targeted therapies for nervous system tumors, we need to identify the critical genetic events that facilitate tumor formation and malignant progression. The identification of these genes affords the opportunity to characterize tumors more likely to behave favorably or unfavorably and/or respond to specific forms of therapeutic intervention.
Researchers working in this area include:
David Gutmann, MD, PhD
David Mansur, MD
Rakesh Nagarajan, MD, PhD
Arie Perry, MD
Mark Watson, MD, PhD
Michael Chicoine, MD
Detailed characterization of the specific mechanisms of action of key genes and cellular pathways involved in nervous system cancer formation and progression. Once we identify key genes involved in nervous system tumorigenesis, the next step is to characterize the mechanisms that underlie the normal function of these genes and proteins in an effort to develop strategies to reduce tumor growth and malignant progression.
Researchers working in this area include:
David Gutmann, MD, PhD
Keith Rich, MD
Joshua Rubin, MD, PhD
Jason Weber, PhD
David Piwnica-Worms, MD, PhD
Sheila Stewart, PhD
Identification and preclinical evaluation of new therapies for nervous system tumors. The final stage of our comprehensive approach to nervous system tumors is to identify new drugs for the treatment of nervous system tumors using advanced high-throughput screening approaches. To evaluate the effectiveness of these candidate therapies, we have developed a number of small animal models. Current studies are focused on employing these preclinical animal models for the testing of potential targeted therapies prior to clinical trials in humans.
Reasearchers working in this area include:
Michael Chicoine, MD
Joel Garbow, PhD
Feng Gao, PhD
David Gutmann, MD, PhD
Jeffrey Leonard, MD
Gerald Linette, MD, PhD
J. Philip Miller, PhD
David Piwnica-Worms, MD, PhD
Joshua Rubin, MD, PhD
Milam Brantley, MD, PhD
Neuro-Oncology Research Group Seminar Series. The Neuro-Oncology Program established a monthly seminar series in 2003 to bring invited speakers representing international leaders in the field of brain tumor research to the Siteman Cancer Center. Check the Calendar of Education Events for dates, times and speakers.
Neurofibramotosis Center
Siteman researchers at Washington University’s Neurofibromatosis Center are focusing their efforts on neurofibromatosis, a common hereditary disorder in which affected individuals develop brain and nervous system tumors. The work of this interdisciplinary, collaborative group has led to several significant discoveries.