Biorepository and advanced research in brain cancer (BARC)

Background and purpose of the trial

Advancements are continually being made in the realm of brain tumors, but there are still many types of tumors with very limited treatment options. The BARC study aims to look at a variety of tumor types in order to further our understanding of these cancers and develop better treatment options. Along with the research being done at CSU, we partner with several institutions so each pet’s tumor sample is able to contribute to a wide variety of research across the globe. In many tumor types, this research is being used to develop treatments for human brain cancers as well. In working together, we know that we can find new treatment options for brain cancers in dogs, cats, and humans.

Study design

After a brain tumor has been confirmed with MRI, a sample of the tumor will be collected via surgery. The clinical trial has no impact on how the surgery is performed so each pet will have the most appropriate surgery for their specific tumor. The tissue will be analyzed to confirm diagnosis and remaining tissue will be used for research. In addition, a small blood sample (approximately 3 teaspoons) will be collected while the pet is anesthetized for research purposes.

Once all samples have been collected, participation in the clinical trial is complete with no trial-specific follow-up needed.

Incentives

The contribution of brain tumor tissue to the shared database is truly vital as we advance our way towards finding better treatments for brain cancers in dogs, cats, and humans. As a thank you for participating, a portion of the cost of surgery will be covered by the study.

condition(s)

brain tumor

eligibility information

  • Dogs and cats of any breed are eligible
  • Pets must have a diagnosed brain tumor that is surgically accessible
  • Pets cannot have previously received radiation or chemotherapy
  • Pets must be otherwise healthy
  • Owners must be willing to have their pet undergo anesthesia for a biopsy or removal of the brain tumor

Enrollment Deadline

Enrollment ends December 31, 2030

contact information

An initial MRI must be completed prior to enrollment to confirm brain tumor location. Once brain tumor location is confirmed, please contact our neurology clinical trials team at [email protected]. We will need to review medical records and the MR images before determining if your pet is eligible for this study.

a person with reddish-brown hair smiles at the camera wearing a green shirt, with the TMI in the background.
Breonna Kusick
Neurology Clinical Trials Coordinator

(970) 297-4405

[email protected]