Clinical Trials for Astrocytomas and Gliomas

A type of neurological tumor (glioma) that can affect people of all ages, astrocytoma, develops from precursors to the star-shaped brain cells known as astrocytes. Astrocytes normally assist with many critical functions, such as maintaining the blood-brain barrier, delivering essential nutrients to nerve tissues and aiding in the repair of brain trauma. When they form tumors, astrocytomas can be challenging to treat.

At Moffitt Cancer Center, the scientists and clinicians in our Neuro-Oncology Program are continually investigating new and better ways to treat astrocytoma and other forms of brain cancer, and we are making great strides. Our research breakthroughs have received national acclaim, including a Comprehensive Cancer Center designation by the National Cancer Institute.

The focus of our studies

Through our robust portfolio of clinical trials, Moffitt’s research team is able to assess the effectiveness of novel therapies for brain and nervous system tumors as compared to the current standard of care. These important medical research studies also offer our patients opportunities to be among the first to benefit from promising new treatment options that are not yet widely available, such as:

• Surgical techniques for brain tumor removal
• Radiation therapy delivery methods for the microscopic portions of these tumors that cannot be surgically removed safely and spare normal brain
• Chemotherapy medications and combinations of existing medications
• Immunotherapies and vaccines
• Supportive therapies to manage the side effects of existing treatments and enhance quality of life

Moffitt is a leading destination for astrocytoma and glioma clinical trials, which are especially important given the limitations of the currently available treatment options. In addition to our renowned scientific researchers, our Neuro-Oncology Program includes experienced surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, neurologists, geneticists, personalized medicine doctors, and neuropsychologists all of whom specialize in treating cancers of the brain and spinal cord. Working together, we provide our patients with highly individualized care, which we believe is key to achieving the best possible outcome and quality of life.

If you have questions or would like to find astrocytoma clinical trials that are currently accepting new patients, please call 1-888-663-3488 or complete our new patient registration form online to request an appointment at Moffitt.