The Brain Tumor Center [BTC] under the direction of Dr. Daniel F. Kelly, M.D., and the John Wayne Cancer Institute are committed to improving the lives of patients with brain tumors, pituitary tumors and related disorders through research and education. Our recent and ongoing research efforts are summarized below:

Our Research Efforts at the BTC / Neuroscience Institute are focused in 3 areas as following:

1. Brain and Pituitary Tumor Biomarker Study

This is an ongoing study aimed at gaining a better understanding of tumor genetics and behavior to plan more effective treatments beyond surgery. All patients undergoing removal of a brain tumor or pituitary tumor (such as a glioma, metastatic brain tumor, pituitary adenoma, meningioma, chordoma or craniopharyngioma, are asked to participate. For participants, a portion of their tumor specimen removed at surgery is placed in a tumor repository. Tumor cells are then studied for specific markers that may indicate their aggressiveness or potential responsiveness to various therapies such as a chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiosurgery.

2. Rhinological Outcomes in Endonasal Pituitary Surgery: A Multicenter Observational Cohort Study

Patients undergoing endonasal removal of a pituitary adenoma are asked to participate in this prospective study both before and after their surgery. The goal of this study is to compare the relative impact on nasal and sinus function and pain for patients undergoing a fully binostril endoscopic tumor removal versus a single nostril microscopic and endoscope-assisted tumor removal. Given that over 80% of patients operated on by Dr. Kelly have a fully endoscopic binostril approach, most patients enrolled in this study at Saint John’s Health Center, will be enrolled in this arm of the study. By participating, patients will also gain better insights into their own recovery. Other participating institutions include the Barrow Neurological Institute and the Chicago Institute of Neurosurgery.

3. Preoperative Somatuline Therapy for patients with Acromegaly - upcoming

4. Vaccine therapy for patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) - upcoming

To learn more about our research efforts and clinical trials, please contact:

Charlene Chaloner, R.N., BTC Research Nurse Coordinator
Saint John’s Health Center & John Wayne Cancer Institute
2200 Santa Monica Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90404  

Phone: 310-582-7457
Fax: 310-582-7495
E-mail: chalonerc@jwci.org

Or

Daniel F. Kelly, M.D., Medical Director
Saint John’s Health Center & John Wayne Cancer Institute
2200 Santa Monica Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90404  

Phone: 310-582-7450
Fax: 310-582-7495
Email: kellyd@jwci.org