Researchers at this lab are working to find biomarkers for any brain tumor. If the specific biomarker is found, then a diagnosis of a particular brain tumor could be made with a “simple” blood test or draw. Then, the tumor may be monitored with sequential blood draws to ensure there is no recurrence. If the blood markers increase, the clinician can then order an MRI to see if the tumor is growing or has returned. There is hope that this lab will be able to find the biomarkers to make the diagnosis of all tumor types, gliomas (low grade or high grade), ependymoma or medulloblastoma. This will revolutionize the management of brain tumors as children will not need as many MRI scans and anesthesia (in some cases).