Understanding the biology of brain tumours

The Taylor Lab uses genetic tools to investigate how normal cells are turned into brain tumours. Genomic analyses and genetic tools allow us to create new models of medulloblastoma and ependymoma so that novel targeted therapies can be developed. This multi-layered approach using laboratory-driven scientific discovery and bioinformatics allows for rapid, clinically-important changes to brain tumour therapy. Our research helps to drastically improve the quality of life of paediatric patients. 

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Medulloblastoma MRI screen image

Medulloblastoma research

Brain tumours are the most common solid malignancies seen in childhood, and the most frequent cause of oncologic death in children. Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant paediatric brain tumour. Current therapy of MB includes resection, radiation of the entire developing brain and spinal cord, and high dose cytotoxic chemotherapy, followed by autologous bone marrow transplant.

Five-year survival rates in population based studies approximate 60-70%. However, the majority of survivors are left with considerable disabilities including severely diminished IQ, neurological and language deficits, endocrine deficiencies, and the occurrence of secondary (radiation induced) cancers. Meeting one of our medulloblastoma survivors is quite sobering, and certainly conveys the urgency of our research to improve quality of life for our patients. 

Learn more about our medulloblastoma research