Proton beam may spare healthy brain tissue in young tumor patients

NCT ID NCT01049230

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study is testing whether proton beam radiation can effectively treat germ cell tumors in the brain while causing fewer side effects than standard photon radiation. About 45 participants aged 3 to 25 will receive daily proton radiation for 4 to 8 weeks. Researchers will track side effects and how long the tumor stays under control.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Proton beam radiation

What this could lead to

If successful, this could show that proton radiation is a safer way to treat brain germ cell tumors with fewer long-term side effects than standard radiation.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase study with only 45 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The treatment still carries risks of radiation side effects, and it is not a cure.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

central nervous system germ cell tumor germ cell tumor Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States

  • Massachusetts General Hospital

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States