Research has shown for the first time how a complication of life-saving stem-cell transplants used for blood cancer patients, impacts the brain.

It’s an important step towards improving the quality of life for patients with chronic Graft-Versus-Host-Disease (GVHD), a condition where transplanted donor cells attack the patient’s organs. 

While the transplant can cure the cancer, many patients develop chronic GVHD and are unable to return to normal life or work. Depression, anxiety and issues with concentration and memory are common, but until now were attributed to the emotional ordeal, or the chemotherapy or radiation.

PhD candidate Rachael Adams explains how her preclinical studies show the brain is actually one of the organs targeted by chronic GVHD, which causes these neurocognitive issues. Her ongoing research is identifying altered biological pathways in the brain that could be the focus of potential treatments.