Few diseases strike more fear in a loved one than the discovery of a brain tumor with its threat to life and neurological well-being. This disease respects no boundaries, often affecting children and adults in the prime of their life, extracting an unforgiving burden on families and friends. Brain tumors are the second leading cause of cancer death in the pediatric population and studies at Columbia have also documented an increase in the elderly.

Despite intensive therapy with conventional treatments including surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, the prognosis remains bleak with virtually no cures and only palliative responses. A 21st century approach is needed to develop a cure and to improve the quality of life for those affected. An unprecedented alliance of basic science and clinical medicine by the best and most respected researchers is being assembled at Columbia to accomplish this lofty goal.