Roger Stupp MD

Dr. Roger Stupp is an internationally recognized medical oncologist with a special focus on innovative cancer treatments and drug development, notably for brain tumors and brain metastases. At Northwestern, he is leading the Division of Neuro-Oncology, and serving as the Co-Director of the Malnati Brain Tumor Institute and Associate Director for the Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Dr. Stupp has been the lead investigator for numerous clinical trials from first-in-human phase 1 to pivotal phase 3 registration studies. In the brain tumor field, he is best known for his contributions of temozolomide (Temodar®) and radiation in the first-line treatment of brain tumors (the “Stupp protocol”) and for establishing MGMT as a predictive marker for benefit from alkylating agent chemotherapy. He was also the lead investigator in establishing Tumor Treating Fields (Optune®) as an innovative treatment modality. Two novel treatments that were based on his research received FDA approval and are today the standard of care for patients suffering from glioblastoma.

Progress in brain tumor treatment has been lagging behind other cancers for a variety of reasons. The brain is physiologically surrounded by a special barrier that protects it from toxins and damage, however, often also protects tumor cells from medical treatment. We are investigating innovative strategies to open the blood-brain barrier selectively, temporarily, and reversibly, thus facilitating novel medicines (including immunotherapy) to reach tumors in higher concentrations. When treating brain tumors and developing novel treatments, early evaluation of treatment response is of utmost importance and allows one to rapidly adapt treatment strategy as needed. Cutting-edge imaging technology paired with specialized expertise is available to accurately evaluate tumor growth and tumor response. Numerous clinical trials led by Dr. Stupp and his colleagues provide access to cutting-edge brain tumor treatments and care.