The mission of the Brain Tumor Trials Collaborative (BTTC) is to develop and perform state-of-the-art clinical trials to advance treatments for patients with brain and spine tumors.
Neuro-Oncology Branch
Neuro-Oncology Branch
About
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The Neuro-Oncology Clinic at NIH is comprised of a multidisciplinary team of physicians, other health care providers, and scientists who are dedicated to developing new therapies and improving outcomes for patients with primary brain and spinal cord tumors.
We offer our patients:
- Expert evaluation, examinations, tests and imaging
- State-of-the-art neurosurgery and radiation therapy
- Therapies based on the genetic characteristics of your specific tumor
- Consultations and treatments at NIH are free-of-charge
The Neuro-Oncology Clinic is located at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.
This is a joint program of the Center for Cancer Research at the National Cancer Institute and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Special Update
Our Neuro-Oncology Clinic is changing normal operating procedures due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Posted March 20, 2020.
- If you are scheduled for an appointment within the next 30 days, you will receive a phone call from a patient care coordinator or health care provider to discuss your visit and what to expect.
- If you need to schedule an appointment, your health care provider should contact us first.
Your care and safety remain our top priority and we appreciate your understanding during this time of continuous change. You can contact us at NCINOBReferrals@mail.nih.gov or 240-760-6010 with your questions or concerns.
Our Mission
The Neuro-Oncology Branch (NOB) is a trans-institutional initiative that launched in 2000. NOB is sponsored by both the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).
Our mission is to develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic agents for patients with primary central nervous system tumors.
The branch's strategic direction is founded on the belief that the continued application of the traditional and largely empiric approach to cancer drug development that has dominated oncology for three decades will likely result in only small, incremental progress in the treatment of patients with malignant gliomas.
Meaningful advances in patient outcomes will more likely result from therapeutic approaches based on a greater understanding of glioma genetics and biology with the subsequent application of that understanding toward individualized and targeted treatments for patients based on their specific tumor characteristics. Additionally, clinical investigations will incorporate tools to measure the impact of the disease on patient function. This will typically include measures of symptom burden, quality of life, and cognitive function.
Although we understand that the idea of "personalized medicine" will only be fully realized through the engagement of the entire cancer research and cancer care enterprise, the NOB functions under the premise that within the protected clinical environment and immense scientific freedom of the NIH intramural program, we are ideally situated to build a small prototype of a biology-driven, individualized, patient-centric rational therapeutics program.
Clinical Trials
Job Vacancies
| Position | Degree Required | Contact Name | Contact Email |
|---|---|---|---|
| Post-doctoral Fellow - Brain tumors, lipid metabolism, cancer biology | Ph.D. or equivalent, M.D. or equivalent | Mioara Larion | mioara.larion@nih.gov |
| Post-doctoral Fellow - Translational research, primary brain tumor | Ph.D. or equivalent, M.D. or equivalent | Jing Wu MD., PhD. | jing.wu3@nih.gov |
| Nurse Practitioner - Neuro-oncology, clinical trials, inpatient/outpatient care | B.S./B.A. or equivalent, Other | Lauri Rimorin | Lauri.Rimorin@nih.gov |
News
Translational Research Immersion Program Interns Share Their Projects at the Annual Summer Poster Day
August 4, 2022
Summer interns investigated methods to improve immunotherapy, tailor survivorship programs, and target cancer cells using antibiotics. Learn more...
Translational Immunology: Making Immunotherapy Effective for Patients with Brain Tumors
June 28, 2022
Immunotherapy is an important area of research in neuro-oncology because of its potential to be an effective treatment for brain tumors. The Translational Immunology Program leads this effort by studying the unique nature of the immune response in the brain to improve patient outcomes. Learn more...
Celebrating Nurses Week
April 28, 2022
We highlight the tireless contribution our nurse practitioners, research nurses and nurse-scientists make to provide the best care for our brain and spine tumor patients. Learn more...
Neuro-Oncology Branch Invites Scholars to Share Their Work
April 5, 2022
The Neuro-Oncology Branch hosts a successful neuro-oncology networking and learning lecture series called the Visiting Scholar Program. It fosters collaboration and the exchange of ideas to help develop new therapies and improve outcomes for people with brain and spime tumors. Learn more...
Immunology and the Brain: Scientific Discoveries Needs to Improve Patient Outcomes
February 9, 2022
Neuro-oncology researchers are hopeful that a better understanding of immunobiology in glioblastoma can improve the treatment efficacy of immune therapy. The Basic Immunology Program leads this effort by studying the functions of T cells in brain and spine cancers. Learn more...
Introduction to Career Pathways in Neuro-Oncology Virtual Event
January 11, 2022
The Neuro-Oncology Branch and the Society for Neuro-Oncology co-hosted a virtual event to provide a venue for students and trainees of all disciplines to learn about neuro-oncology careers in basic science and clinical care and research. View recording...
New Research Shows How Patients with Brain and Spine Tumors are Impacted
December 15, 2021
Five nurses share data from the Natural History Study, which aims to better understand brain and spine tumors and uncover areas for further research. Learn more...
Neuro-Oncology Branch Provides Mentorship to Trainees
December 15, 2021
The Neuro-Oncology Branch hosts a variety of transdisciplinary trainees all working toward the goal of improving outcomes for people living with a brain or spine tumor. The trainees presented their work at a national neuro-oncology conference. Learn more…
Neuro-Oncology Branch Receives Awards at the 2021 SNO Annual Meeting
November 21, 2021
Two physicians share findings from the NCI-CONNECT Immunotherapy and Natural History Studies in award-winning abstracts. Learn more...
Translational Research: Turning Patient Observations and Laboratory Findings into Clinical Trials
September 28, 2021
Developing clinical trials for people living with a brain and spine tumor is no easy feat. It takes a considerable amount of research in a laboratory and patient observations in the clinic to develop new ways to treat the disease and improve outcomes. The Translational Research Program is dedicated to doing just that. Learn more...
2021 Summer Internship Program
Each summer, the Neuro-Oncology Branch (NOB) welcomes students participating in the NIH Summer Internship Program in Biomedical Research. The NOB welcomed six summer interns for the summer 2021 cohort who were able to observe and engage with clinical and laboratory professionals that lead clinical, translational, and basic research. Learn more...
Symposium to Advance Neuro-Oncology Survivorship Care
Neuro-oncology providers, researchers, advocates, patients, and care partners gathered virtually to learn and discuss the challenges experienced by persons living with brain and spine tumors and develop survivorship care guidelines. Learn more...
Neuro-Oncology Fellowship Program Guides Future Leaders
July 23, 2021
In an effort to advance the care and treatment of those living with a brain or spine tumor, the Neuro-Oncology Branch and Johns Hopkins University created a joint Neuro-Oncology Fellowship Program to train the next generation of physician scientists. Learn more...
Oral Drug Combination Shows Benefit for Adults with Ependymoma
Learn how results from the first prospective clinical trial for adults with ependymoma led to a change in treatment guidelines, offering hope to control the disease and improve symptoms. Learn more...
Providing and Advancing Survivorship Care in Neuro-Oncology
April 29, 2021
Neuro-oncologist Dr. Heather Leeper is involved in every aspect of a patient’s illness experience and shares how she is advancing survivorship care in neuro-oncology. Learn more...
Targeting Cancer Metabolism to Improve Care and Treatment for People with Brain and Spine Tumors
March 25, 2021
How can we be innovative in our approach to research in order to improve outcomes for central nervous system tumors? That is the driving question and force behind our Cancer Metabolism Program, led by investigator Mioara Larion, Ph.D. Learn more...
Patient Outcomes Team Presents at Symptom Science Advances in Oncology Nursing Conference
February 26, 2021
The Neuro-Oncology Branch was well represented at the meeting, with 19 presentations and 5 awards received throughout the 2-day meeting. A summary of the award-winning NOB presentations is provided. Learn more...
Neuro-Oncology Branch 2020 Year in Review
January 22, 2021
The Neuro-Oncology Branch shares accomplishments made throughout 2020. Together, our clinical team, research laboratories, and staff have made meaningful advancements to improve outcomes for patients and their families impacted by brain and spine tumors. Learn more...
Developing Clinical Trials to Advance Care for Brain and Spine Cancers
November 13, 2020
Developing clinical trials for brain and spine tumors is vital to improving care for patients. However, neuro-oncology trials have unique challenges given the rarity and characteristics of these tumors. Learn more...
Glioblastoma Survivor, Bob, Finds Hope at NIH
July 1, 2020
Bob was diagnosed with glioblastoma in 2015. A previously active bicyclist and outdoor enthusiast, read how he made many lifestyle changes to accommodate his needs as he underwent treatment. Learn more...
BTTC Colleagues Integrated into Weekly Tumor Board
June 25, 2020
In a continuing effort to increase collaboration, the weekly Neuro-Oncology Tumor Board held at the NIH is now inclusive of BTTC doctors at remote institutions to improve patient care. Learn more...
Andrew, An Astrocytoma Survivor Building a New Life
June 19, 2020
Andrew, an astrocytoma survivor, visits the Neuro-Oncology Branch regularly for treatment advice from our experienced neuro-oncology physicians and nurses. Read about his experience with our clinic and new outlook on life after diagnosis. Learn more...
Telehealth: What You Need to Know About a Virtual Doctor Visit
June 19, 2020
Neuro-oncology experts share what telehealth is, the benefits and limitations, how to prepare and what to expect during and after your visit. Learn more...
Spotlight on Matt Lindsley
May 26, 2020
Matt Lindsley, a research nurse at the Neuro-Oncology Branch, also serves as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Public Health Service. His passionate service to the NOB clinical trial patients is integral to our branch's mission. Learn more...
Celebrating Nurses Week
May 12, 2020
We highlight the tireless contribution our nurse practitioners, research nurses and nurse-scientists make to provide the best care for our brain and spine tumor patients. Learn more...
Advances in Clinical Care and Research
April 29, 2020
Our Neuro-Oncology Branch is advancing care and treatment for people with brain and spine tumors through collaborative scientific workshops, research discovers, and successful clinical trials. Learn more...
Tracking Patient Outcomes to Improve Clinical Trials
March 6, 2020
In collaboration with leaders in the field, Dr. Terri Armstrong published a paper outlining the importance of tracking patient outcomes in clinical trials. Including these patient-reported outcomes can help physicians better understand the impact of the tumor on the patient and their lives. Learn more...
Women Scientist Appreciation Month
March 1, 2020
In celebration of International Women and Girls in Science Day, we celebrated female scientists, physicians and mentors in the Neuro-Oncology Branch that strive every day to make advances in ground-breaking research for brain and spine tumor patients. Learn more...
Exploratory Adaptation Explains How Glioblastoma Cells Adapt and Survive
February 5, 2020
Dr. Orieta Celiku and Dr. Mark Gilbert publish an article on the concept of exploratory adaptation in glioblastoma. Using bioinformatics and mathematical modeling, they have found tools to explain how glioblastoma cells may adapt to survive in stressful conditions. Learn more...
Celebrating National Mentoring Month
January 31, 2020
We celebrate our impactful mentors in the Neuro-Oncology Branch for National Mentoring Month. Our postdoctoral fellows share their love for science and how their mentors have made their experience at NIH more rewarding. Learn more...
FDA Grants Orphan Drug Designation to Zotiraciclib for the Treatment of Glioma
January 9, 2020
Dr. Jing Wu's investigational drug, zotiraciclib, receives orphan drug approval by the FDA for the treatment of glioma, which comprises up to 30% of all brain and central nervous system tumors. Learn more...
Why a Precise Diagnosis is Vital to Treat Brain and Spine Tumors
October 10, 2019
NCI neuropathologist Dr. Kenneth Aldape is using the latest technologies to precisely diagnose brain and spine tumors. He shares his techniques and why they’re important to precision medicine. Learn more...
Clinical Trial Tests New Drug for Recurrent Ependymomas
May 28, 2019
Ependymomas are rare tumors that arise in the fluid-filled cavities in the brain and spinal cord. A new clinical trial is testing a drug that targets ependymomas that have a specific genetic signature. Learn more...
New Strategy for Treating Brain Tumors with Mutations in Metabolic Enzymes
February 20, 2019
Dr. Chunzhang Yang and his team uncover the molecular effects of IDH mutations in gliomas, including stress, reactive oxygen species and changes in a protein named NRF2. The group also explored how a small molecule inhibitor for NRF2 can make glioma cells more responsive to therapy in preclinical mouse models. Learn more...
Clinical Trial Studies Antitumor Effect of Sunitinib in Central Nervous System Sarcomas
February 4, 2019
A new clinical trial studying the cancer drug sunitinib for recurrent gliosarcoma and previously treated sarcomas of the CNS, which comprises the brain and spinal cord. Learn more...
See Brain Cancer as More Than Just the Sum of Biology
September 26, 2018
Dr. Terri Armstrong shares how neurological symptoms, as well as biological changes in cells and tissues, contribute to the disease’s characteristics. Learn more...
NCI-CONNECT Rare Brain and Spine Tumor Network Website Launches
September 24, 2018
New network fosters patient-advocacy-provider partnerships and networks to improve care and treatment of rare brain and spine tumors. Learn more...
Can Immunotherapy Succeed in Glioblastoma?
May 24, 2018
Despite continued efforts to develop new therapies for glioblastoma, none have been able to improve how long patients live appreciably. Despite some setbacks, researchers are hopeful that immunotherapy might be able to succeed where other therapies have not. Learn more...
Rare Cancer Moonshot Project
December 6, 2017
Dr. Mark Gilbert shares information about the new moonshot project focusing on rare brain tumors: bringing together scientists and clinicians while closely following the patient experience. Learn more...
Adding Immune-Based Treatments to Standard Glioblastoma Therapy
October 11, 2017
This clinical trial is testing standard therapy (surgery, radiation and temozolomide) plus immunotherapy with pembrolizumab with or without a cancer treatment vaccine for patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma. Learn more...
Clinical Trial Aims to Study Immunotherapy for Central Nervous System Tumors
August 23, 2017
A new clinical trial aims to determine whether nivolumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor, can improve control of cancer for patients with several types of tumors of the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS is composed of the brain and spinal cord and the cause of most CNS tumors in adults is unknown. Learn more...
Glioblastoma – Unraveling the Threads
August 3, 2017
Progress against the brain cancer glioblastoma has been slow. Drs. Gilbert and Armstrong of NCI’s Neuro-Oncology Branch discuss why and what’s being done to change that. Learn more...
Clinical Trial Explores New Glioblastoma Treatment Regimen
May 22, 2017
On average, a patient with glioblastoma lives for only about a year after diagnosis. In a new clinical trial, CCR researchers will test whether a combination of a vaccine made from the patient’s tumor with another immunotherapy treatment can increase survival rates. Learn more...
PARP Inhibitors May be Effective in Brain, Other Cancers With IDH Mutations
April 24, 2017
Two separate studies have revealed new insights into the function of genetic mutations commonly found in a form of brain cancer as well as several other cancers and, in the process, identified a potential new treatment strategy. Learn more…
Research
With support from the investigators in the Neuro-Oncology Branch (NOB), we have developed robust programs addressing critical areas of brain and spine cancer research. Our investigators translate laboratory findings into clinical trials which are designed to assess whether a treatment is working and what the impact is on the patient. Each of the laboratory programs have the same goal – to improve brain and spine cancer patient care and outcomes.
Clinical Research Program
Led by Mark Gilbert, M.D. and Terri Armstrong, Ph.D., this program encompasses a growing portfolio of therapeutic brain and spine cancer clinical trials as well as a series of complementary non-therapeutic studies. The infrastructure that has been developed for clinical research has enabled our investigators to launch studies including phase 0 studies using both microdialysis techniques as well as post-treatment tumor resection to determine tumor drug delivery, phase I studies with pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and single arm phase II studies. Larger scale clinical trials are being done in the Brain Tumor Trials Collaborative and the NCI-CONNECT Clinical Trials Network, both led by the NOB. Notably, patient outcomes measures are integrated into each clinical trial, complementing ongoing work in the Patient Outcomes Program.
Patient Outcomes Program
Led by Terri Armstrong, Ph.D., this program is focused on implementing outcomes measures that assess brain and spine cancer patients during the course of their disease. Utilizing the Natural History Study with longitudinal collection of clinical characteristics, Patient Reported Outcomes measures to learn cancer risk information, and biologic samples including germline DNA for single nucleotide polymorphisms are collected for evaluation. Dr. Armstrong is also developing preclinical models for treatment-related toxicities including radiation-induced somnolence which may have an association with polymorphisms of select CLOCK genes.
Translational Research Program
Led by Jing Wu, M.D., Ph.D., this program is focused on the development of brain and spine cancer clinical trials that have strong preclinical science and rationale, enabling the clinical trial to be hypothesis-based with strong correlative biology. Studies with the novel targeted agent, TG02, led to the creation of a successful phase I trial. This program is also investigating the malignant transformation and hypermutation that occurs in a subset of patients harboring IDH-mutated gliomas. This translational research complements the work by Dr. Mioara Larion and the Cancer Metabolism Research Program, translating preclinical models and imaging biomarkers to clinical trials.
Immunology Program
Initially led by Mark Gilbert, M.D., this program has recently transitioned its leadership to Masaki Terabe, Ph.D., and is focused on various aspects of translational and basic immunology, such as examining the biology of NK-T cells, potent mediators of immune response, in brain and spine cancers. These topics include:
- Developing techniques to assess the immune phenotype of brain and spine tumors
- Patient immunocompetence and metrics of peripheral response to immune modulators
- Evaluating the impact of treatment agents such as chemotherapy and corticosteroids on immune reactivity
- Achieving a better understanding of the mediators of an effective immune response such as immune cell trafficking
- Chemokine production in the tumor microenvironment
The Cancer Stem Cell Biology Program
Led by Zhengping Zhuang, M.D., Ph.D., this program focuses on his longstanding interest and expertise in evaluating hypoxia and pseudohypoxia as well as the role of HIF2α abnormalities in brain and spine cancer biology. The ongoing research is focused on understanding the functional impact of the genetic changes that may uncover early disease states and potential therapeutic opportunities.
Molecular and Cell Biology Program
Led by Chunzhang Yang, Ph.D., this program is focused on the biologic impacts of cancer-associated IDH mutations to uncover selective vulnerability of brain and spine cancers. These investigations have demonstrated that DNA repair pathways are compromised due to the effects of the IDH mutation and that Nrf2-mediated metabolic pathways, such as glutathione de-novo synthesis, support IDH-mutated cells by relieving metabolic stress and oxidative damage. These studies may have a direct link to clinical research as Dr. Jing Wu is developing a robust therapeutic program for patients with IDH-mutant tumors.
Cancer Metabolism Program
Led by Mioara Larion, Ph.D., this program is studying IDH-mutant gliomas, given the impact that this mutation has on tumor metabolism. Her investigations are exploring the impact of IDH mutations on cellular requirements for carbon sources, lipid metabolism at the molecular, organelle, and cellular levels as well as preclinical development of hyperpolarized MRI using 13C substrates to measure in vitro metabolic flux. Her research compliments the cell biology-focused research by Dr. Chunzhang Yang and the translational and clinical research on IDH-mutant tumors being performed by Dr. Jing Wu.