Clinical and preclinical studies demonstrate the debilitating and long-term side effects of cancer therapy on normal brain function and cognition, an unmet medical need that impacts the quality of life for millions of cancer survivors. While this problem has been recognized for decades, few if any satisfactory long-term solutions exist to resolve this serious unintended side effect. Substantiated by significant preliminary data, Dr. Acharya and his team will utilize human neural stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) to characterize the efficacy and safety to mitigate adverse neurocognitive and neuroinflammatory effects of clinically relevant brain cancer therapies. Using mouse models of brain cancer, this study will determine the safety and efficacy of EVs in repairing combined radiation- and chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairments and neuroinflammation in the brain.

For information about the CIRM grant, visit: 
https://www.cirm.ca.gov/about-cirm/newsroom/press-releases/08242021/stem-cell-agency-funds-three-new-clinical-trials

To view Dr. Acharya's Review Summary: Acharya Review Summary

For information on the ICOC agenda, visit:
https://www.cirm.ca.gov/agendas/08132021/august-2021-application-review-subcommittee-meeting