The return of the Christopher Davidson Forum

On Sept. 13 and 14, more than 130 brain tumor researchers from around the country gathered at WashU for the 2024 Christopher Davidson Forum (CDF).  The two day event was established in 2016 by Joanne and Charles F. Knight and their family to honor the memory of their late son-in-law, Christopher Davidson, who was diagnosed with […]

The Brain Tumor Center hosts research forum for grad students

Young brain cancer researchers gathered to discuss challenges, share solutions, and explore new ideas. On August 22-23, leaders from The Brain Tumor Center (BTC) successfully hosted their first Graduate Student Symposium on Brain Cancer Research. The event brought together 15 talented graduate students from institutions nationwide, including MIT, UCLA, UCSF, Cleveland Clinic, and MD Anderson. […]

Mapping human brain cells could lead to new treatments for brain disorders

Research faculty member Yang Eric Li, PhD, joined the Brain Tumor Center in July 2023 as an Assistant Professor of Genetics and Neurosurgery. His lab focuses on developing computational tools and using advanced (epi)genomic techniques to understand gene dysregulation in brain tumors and neuropsychiatric disorders. As part of the NIH’s Brain Research Through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies (BRAIN) Initiative, […]

Noninvasive, ultrasound-based brain biopsy is feasible, safe in people

Sonobiopsies generate genetic, molecular data to inform treatment decisions for brain diseases The blood-brain barrier, the body’s way of shielding sensitive brain tissue from viruses, toxins and other harmful substances in the blood, can pose a problem for physicians caring for patients with suspected brain diseases such as cancer. Molecular and genetic information would be […]

New research shows ultrasound can be used to noninvasively induce a hibernation-like state in mice, rats

Hong Chen, PhD, associate professor of biomedical engineering and neurosurgery, authored a new paper that appeared in Nature Metabolism. Her work describes the use of focused ultrasound to induce a torpor-like state in rodents. Chen’s research has been shared in the New York Times, multiple science blogs and podcasts: Science, Live Science, The Guardian, New Scientist, […]

Kim named inaugural Danforth WashU Physician-Scientist Scholar

Neurosurgeon Albert H. Kim is a nationally recognized expert on brain tumors Albert H. Kim, MD, PhD, a professor of neurological surgery at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, has been named the inaugural William H. Danforth Washington University Physician Scholar. He is the first researcher named as part of the School of […]

Washington University neurosurgeons’ PBS show explores wonders of the brain

The highly acclaimed BrainWorks, a theatrical production created by and starring Washington University School of Medicine neurosurgeons Eric C. Leuthardt, MD, and Albert H. Kim, MD, PhD, is now airing on PBS stations throughout the U.S. The St. Louis premiere is scheduled to air on the Nine Network Oct. 7 and Oct. 14 from 7 […]