Pediatric epilepsy, particularly focal cortical dysplasia type II (FCDII), presents significant treatment challenges, with traditional surgical options often limited. Recent studies have highlighted the efficacy of ablating dysmorphic neurons (DNs) associated with FCDII, which are linked to hyperactive mTOR signaling. Xu et al. demonstrated that targeting these neurons can lead to favorable outcomes in refractory epilepsy cases (ref: Xu doi.org/10.1016/j.ymthe.2025.05.023/). Furthermore, a comparative analysis by Rados et al. revealed that children undergoing subdural grid electrode implantation or stereoelectroencephalography exhibited higher seizure frequencies but similar rates of surgical resection and seizure freedom compared to adults, suggesting that age-related factors may influence surgical outcomes (ref: Rados doi.org/10.1111/epi.18443/). Additionally, Xu's case series on endovascular embolization presents a promising minimally invasive alternative for pediatric patients with refractory epilepsy, particularly when traditional surgical options pose high risks (ref: Xu doi.org/10.1136/jnis-2025-023265/). The critical contributions of neuronal subtypes to drug-resistant focal dysplasia were further elucidated by Zhang, who utilized single-nucleus RNA sequencing to uncover the underlying mechanisms of resistance in pediatric epilepsy (ref: Zhang doi.org/10.3389/fcell.2025.1566137/). Lastly, Bell's investigation into the neuropsychological impacts of repetitive head impacts in youth football players underscores the importance of understanding the long-term effects of sports-related injuries on brain health (ref: Bell doi.org/10.1089/neu.2024.0222/).

Recent advancements in pediatric oncology have focused on innovative therapeutic strategies and understanding tumor biology. Foster et al. explored the efficacy of mRNA CAR T cells targeting GD2 in treating diffuse midline glioma and high-grade glioma models, demonstrating that these cells can maintain therapeutic effects while minimizing neurotoxicity (ref: Foster doi.org/10.1093/neuonc/). In a separate study, Xie identified the immunomechanical checkpoint PYK2 as a critical regulator of monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation in pancreatic cancer, suggesting that targeting PYK2 could enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy (ref: Xie doi.org/10.1158/2159-8290.CD-24-1712/). Bernstock's research highlighted the survival benefits of gabapentinoids in glioblastoma, emphasizing the role of neuronal-glioma interactions in tumor progression (ref: Bernstock doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-59614-4/). Furthermore, the Make-an-IMPACT program, as reported by Farouk Sait, has successfully provided genomic profiling in pediatric cancer patients, yielding actionable insights for diagnosis and treatment in 41% of solid tumor cases (ref: Farouk Sait doi.org/10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-24-3910/). Emani's retrospective analysis of pediatric brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) has shed light on their natural history and potential risk factors for rupture, contributing to the understanding of these complex vascular anomalies (ref: Emani doi.org/10.1093/brain/).

Research into neurodevelopmental disorders has revealed significant genetic and therapeutic insights. Carlomagno's genome-wide association study identified key loci associated with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus, enhancing the understanding of genetic factors influencing disease onset (ref: Carlomagno doi.org/10.1002/art.43227/). Nguyen's phase II clinical trial demonstrated that combining autologous bone marrow mononuclear cell administration with educational interventions significantly improved outcomes in children with autism spectrum disorder, indicating the potential for integrated therapeutic approaches (ref: Nguyen doi.org/10.1186/s13287-025-04404-4/). Almer's study on IGF1R inhibition in multifocal medulloblastoma highlighted the challenges posed by the blood-brain barrier and the potential for innovative drug delivery methods (ref: Almer doi.org/10.1038/s43856-025-00925-4/). Additionally, Bauer's investigation into cortical atrophy patterns in Rasmussen syndrome provided insights into the clinical and histopathological correlations of this condition (ref: Bauer doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0000000000213629/). Sabadell's pilot study on prehabilitation for language difficulties in temporal lobe epilepsy patients suggests that targeted interventions may mitigate cognitive deficits associated with surgical treatment (ref: Sabadell doi.org/10.1111/epi.18449/).

The exploration of genetic and molecular factors in pediatric conditions has yielded significant findings. Farouk Sait's Make-an-IMPACT program has demonstrated the utility of genomic profiling in pediatric cancers, providing actionable insights for treatment in a substantial proportion of patients (ref: Farouk Sait doi.org/10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-24-3910/). Mihalas's research on KAT5's role in glioblastoma highlights its impact on tumor heterogeneity and recurrence, suggesting that targeting this pathway may enhance therapeutic outcomes (ref: Mihalas doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-59503-w/). Zhang's study on gene therapy for autosomal recessive deafness revealed enhanced auditory cortex activation and mental development post-treatment, underscoring the potential of genetic interventions in restoring sensory functions (ref: Zhang doi.org/10.1038/s41562-025-02184-8/). Pan's randomized trial on transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation for narcolepsy type 1 showed promising results in improving sleep onset latency, indicating the potential for novel therapeutic approaches in sleep disorders (ref: Pan doi.org/10.1016/j.neurot.2025.e00604/). Lastly, Xu's panoramic spatial enhanced resolution proteomics approach has provided new insights into tumor architecture and heterogeneity in gliomas, paving the way for improved understanding of tumor biology (ref: Xu doi.org/10.1186/s13045-025-01710-5/).

Neuroimaging and biomarker research in pediatric neurology has advanced significantly, providing insights into various neurological conditions. Alcala-Zermeno's randomized crossover trial on anterior thalamic nuclei deep brain stimulation for epilepsy optimization revealed the complexities of stimulation parameters and their effects on seizure management (ref: Alcala-Zermeno doi.org/10.1111/epi.18479/). Zhou's investigation into the role of the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor in dry eye disease highlighted its potential as a therapeutic target for modulating neuroinflammation (ref: Zhou doi.org/10.1167/iovs.66.5.13/). Morfouace's molecular analysis of adolescent and young adult high-grade gliomas emphasized the importance of genetic profiling in understanding tumor behavior and treatment responses (ref: Morfouace doi.org/10.1016/j.ejca.2025.115493/). Sala's study on multidimensional prevention strategies for cognitive decline in older adults underscores the need for comprehensive approaches to address age-related neurological issues (ref: Sala doi.org/10.3389/fnagi.2025.1581892/). Huang's bibliometric analysis of artificial intelligence in neurodegenerative diseases highlights the growing intersection of technology and neuroscience, suggesting future research directions (ref: Huang doi.org/10.3389/fnagi.2025.1586282/).

Innovations in neurosurgical techniques and outcomes have been pivotal in advancing patient care. Elrick's SAVANA algorithm for detecting somatic structural variants and copy number aberrations using long-read sequencing represents a significant advancement in understanding cancer evolution and tailoring treatments (ref: Elrick doi.org/10.1038/s41592-025-02708-0/). Knol's Pan-Cancer Proteome Atlas provides a comprehensive mass spectrometry-based landscape for discovering tumor biology and therapeutic targets across various cancer types, enhancing the understanding of tumor heterogeneity (ref: Knol doi.org/10.1016/j.ccell.2025.05.003/). Courtney's research on choroid plexus secretion during brain development sheds light on the molecular cues essential for neurodevelopment, indicating potential therapeutic targets for developmental disorders (ref: Courtney doi.org/10.1038/s41593-025-01972-9/). Lv's analysis of extrachromosomal DNA in urothelial carcinoma emphasizes its role in tumor evolution and immune evasion, providing insights for targeted therapies (ref: Lv doi.org/10.1158/2159-8290.CD-24-1532/). Metcalf's clinical practice guidelines on platelet transfusion highlight the importance of evidence-based practices in managing thrombocytopenia in pediatric populations (ref: Metcalf doi.org/10.1001/jama.2025.7529/).

Research into neuroinflammation and immune responses has revealed critical insights into various neurological conditions. Yousefpour's study on targeting C1q to prevent microglia-mediated synaptic removal in neuropathic pain highlights the role of microglia in synaptic pruning and its implications for pain management (ref: Yousefpour doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-59849-1/). Gromova's transcriptome analysis in spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy mice identified dysregulation in sarcomere gene expression and calcium flux, providing insights into disease mechanisms (ref: Gromova doi.org/10.1093/hmg/). Roston's assessment of increased intracranial pressure in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and multiple sclerosis underscores the need for comprehensive evaluations in demyelinating diseases (ref: Roston doi.org/10.1177/13524585251340841/). Gross's multicenter study on predicting memory decline post-left temporal lobe epilepsy surgery using preoperative fMRI emphasizes the potential of neuroimaging in surgical planning (ref: Gross doi.org/10.1016/j.nicl.2025.103804/). Liu's investigation into prenatal enriched environments and their effects on maternal gut microbiota and fetal neurodevelopment reveals the intricate connections between environmental factors and neurodevelopmental outcomes (ref: Liu doi.org/10.1007/s11427-024-2870-4/).

Innovative therapies and clinical trials are reshaping the landscape of pediatric medicine. Almer's research on IGF1R inhibition for multifocal medulloblastoma highlights the potential of targeted therapies in overcoming challenges posed by the blood-brain barrier (ref: Almer doi.org/10.1038/s43856-025-00925-4/). Xia's study on disrupting BAG3-mediated BACE1 stabilization in Alzheimer's disease models demonstrates promising therapeutic avenues for alleviating neuropathology and cognitive deficits (ref: Xia doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.adt7981/). Xu's panoramic spatial enhanced resolution proteomics approach has provided new insights into glioma tumor architecture, paving the way for improved understanding of tumor biology (ref: Xu doi.org/10.1186/s13045-025-01710-5/). Ye's exploration of blocking LIF and PD-L1 to enhance the efficacy of stereotactic body radiotherapy in pancreatic cancer suggests novel combination strategies for improving treatment outcomes (ref: Ye doi.org/10.1136/jitc-2024-010820/). Tauziède-Espariat's findings on PATZ1-fused glioneuronal tumors reveal the complexity of tumor classification and the need for precise molecular characterization in pediatric oncology (ref: Tauziède-Espariat doi.org/10.1186/s40478-025-02037-5/).