The Alicia Koplowitz Foundation has selected research from Cima University of Navarra in its call for proposals for research in Child and Adolescent Neuroscience 2021. Dr. Sara Labiano Almiñana coordinates this study that seeks to develop therapies to reduce neurological sequelae in children and adolescents treated for brain tumours.

Advances in the treatment of childhood brain cancer have led to a remarkable increase in survival in recent decades. However, there are side effects associated with treatment, mainly radiotherapy, that limit the quality of life of the patient and their environment, such as deficits in learning, report and attention and mood disorders.

"In this project we will study the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in cognitive deficit after overcoming a paediatric brain tumour. We also propose to develop new treatments in combination with radiotherapy to minimise side effects and improve patients' quality of life," explains Dr Labiano.

The approach to this work will be carried out by a team multidisciplinary from Cima and Clínica Universidad de Navarra made up of experts in paediatric neuro-oncology, radiotherapy, neurosciences and immunology. It is co-directed by Dr. Marta Alonso Roldán, Dr. Ana García Osta and Dr. María Rodríguez Ruiz.