The pediatric neurosurgeons and clinical neuro-oncologists of the Brain Tumor Center work in direct collaboration with the scientists of the Michael Douglas Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Center (BTRC), which was established in 1999 through the generosity of filmmaker and philanthropist Michael Douglas. These researchers are dedicated to translational research - research in which scientists and clinicians work in partnership to translate laboratory findings about the biology and behavior of brain tumors into new or improved forms of therapy. Innovative research from the basic science investigators establishes the basis for many clinical trials of cancer therapy. Pediatric BTRC clinicians oversee the care of children who participate in trials of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, radiosurgery, gene therapy, and combination therapies.