Penn State College of Medicine's Dr. Valerie Brown, a distinguished professor of pediatrics, has secured a $50,000 Infrastructure Grant from the St. Baldrick's Foundation to enhance pediatric oncology clinical trials. The funding marks a significant step forward in the institution's commitment to advancing innovative cancer treatments for young patients.
Dr. Brown, who leads the experimental therapeutics program in the Pediatric Hematology/Oncology division at Penn State Health Children's Hospital, has established herself as a pioneer in developing experimental cancer treatment options previously unavailable in the region. The grant will support ongoing research initiatives, including a newly launched national clinical study investigating novel drug combinations for treating relapsed and refractory neuroblastoma.
Expanding Treatment Options for Pediatric Cancer
The infrastructure grant will bolster Dr. Brown's research program, which focuses on developing cutting-edge therapeutic approaches for challenging pediatric cancers. Her work has been instrumental in bringing innovative treatment options to the region, providing hope for patients who have exhausted standard treatment protocols.
New Clinical Trial for Neuroblastoma
A cornerstone of the funded research is the recently initiated national clinical study examining new drug combinations for relapsed and refractory neuroblastoma. This aggressive form of childhood cancer often requires innovative therapeutic approaches, particularly in cases where standard treatments have proven ineffective.
"I would like to thank the St. Baldrick's Foundation for their shared commitment to improving the outcomes of pediatric cancer patients," said Dr. Brown, emphasizing the significance of the foundation's support. "I am grateful for their support. Our work is not done until we can tell every patient they are cured."
The grant represents St. Baldrick's Foundation's ongoing dedication to advancing pediatric cancer research and improving treatment outcomes. Through this funding, Penn State Health Children's Hospital continues to strengthen its position as a leading center for pediatric cancer research and treatment.
