Many scientists believe that the human brain is the most complex object in the universe. Brain tumors are especially difficult to treat, since the tissue around the tumor, which might get injured during treatment, gives us our ability to think, move, sense, and be our own “selves.” The complexity of the brain, coupled with the insidious nature of brain cancer and the dangers associated with removing that cancer, pose a challenge to basic researchers and clinical investigators alike.

At St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, laboratory scientists and physicians in the clinics work hand-in-hand to find ways to improve treatment. The following items indicate the progress that has occurred at St. Jude in the past few months:

An international pilot study has brought researchers closer to an international clinical trial aimed at improving guidelines for treatment of medulloblastomas.

For the first time ever, Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure (ABC2) and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation (PBTF) have jointly awarded a research grant. A radiation therapy technique that kills brain tumors in children while sparing normal tissue allows young patients to enjoy normal development of memory, reasoning, problem-solving and other cognitive functions.

Scientists at St. Jude recently identified what may be the first non-toxic treatment for a subset of medulloblastomas.

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is internationally recognized for its pioneering work in finding cures and saving children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases. Founded by late entertainer Danny Thomas and based in Memphis, Tennessee, St. Jude freely shares its discoveries with scientific and medical communities around the world. No family ever pays for treatments not covered by insurance, and families without insurance are never asked to pay.

Watch Matts Video

Lean more about matts condition and how he and his family supported each other

Learn More about St. Jude

St. Jude is the leading children's hospital, learn more about how they make a difference every day

Dr. Gajjar and Staff

Dr. Gajjar was one of matts doctors who dedicated his life to saving others

The Kenny Can Foundation

Nancy Dennis has supported The Noyes Brain Tumor Foundation for years and each year donates time and money. Check out her web site supporting a similar cause.

Dentists with a Dream

Matts dad and his employees have another way to raise money for St. Jude, learn more and see if you can help.