Clemson Scientist Explores Pediatric Brain Tumor Origins Using Chicken Embryos

Greenville Spartanburg Asheville Anderson, SC, August 14, 2026 —

A researcher at Clemson University is employing an unconventional model – chicken embryos – to investigate the origins of a rare and aggressive pediatric brain tumor known as ATRT (Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumor). Dr. Tara Doucet-O’Hare, a scientist at Clemson, is leading this research with the goal of understanding how and where these tumors begin in order to develop more effective and targeted treatments for affected young children.

ATRT is a type of malignant tumor that develops in the brain and spinal cord. It is most commonly diagnosed in infants and young children, and its rarity makes it challenging to study. Traditional research methods can be limited, prompting the exploration of alternative approaches to gain crucial insights into the tumor’s development.

The use of chicken embryos in scientific research is not new, offering a versatile and accessible model for studying developmental processes. In Dr. Doucet-O’Hare’s work, chicken embryos provide a developing biological system where the early stages of tumor formation can potentially be observed and analyzed. This research endeavors to identify the specific cellular or genetic factors that may contribute to the initial development of ATRT.

By pinpointing the tumor’s origin, scientists hope to identify critical vulnerabilities or targets. This knowledge could pave the way for the development of novel therapies that are specifically designed to combat the tumor at its earliest stages, potentially leading to improved outcomes for children diagnosed with ATRT. The research is ongoing, with further findings anticipated as the study progresses.

Story summarized from the original created by FOX Carolina News Staff on www.foxcarolina.com, see more information here.