Actionable biomarkers for paediatric brain tumours
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Interrogation of biomarkers for detection and treatment of paediatric brain tumours.
IRAS ID
351578
Contact name
Petra Hamerlik
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The University of Manchester
Duration of Study in the UK
5 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Brain tumours are the leading cause of cancer-related death in children, and despite advances in molecular understanding, survival outcomes for many malignant subtypes remain poor. This study aims to improve early diagnosis and treatment outcomes for children with brain tumours by integrating advanced molecular biology and modelling techniques.
The study will prospectively recruit children (aged 0–18 years), from three NHS sites, with suspected or confirmed brain tumours and/or epilepsy to collect tissue and liquid biopsies (blood, cerebrospinal fluid, urine, saliva, faeces and tear fluid) and clinical data.
These samples will be used to:
Develop and characterise patient-derived pre-clinical tumour models (e.g. organoids, slices, cell lines etc.) to better reflect the biological diversity of paediatric brain tumours and support translational research.
Identify druggable biomarkers (targets) to inform the development of targeted therapies and early-phase clinical trials.
Evaluate liquid biopsy-based assays for early, non-invasive diagnosis and real-time monitoring of disease progression and therapeutic response.
The anticipated benefits of this study include:
Earlier and more accurate diagnosis of paediatric brain tumours.
Reduced reliance on invasive procedures such as biopsy of eloquent brain regions and toxic treatments.
Improved long-term outcomes and quality of life for affected children by furthering our understanding of brain tumour biology and translation of putative druggable biomarkers.The study is observational and aligns with standard clinical care. We will be accessing archival tissue and/or time prospective sample collection that will coincide with routine procedures to minimise participant burden
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - South Yorkshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/YH/0027
Date of REC Opinion
7 May 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Unfavourable Opinion