Metabolic Imaging for Brain Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to test a new method for examining brain tumors using a special type of MRI, called advanced Metabolic Imaging (aMRI), and compare it to the usual PET scan. A PET scan uses a small amount of radioactive sugar to identify active tumor cells in the brain, but it can be costly and difficult to access. The new MRI method seeks to provide similar information without the high cost and limited availability of PET scans. The trial seeks adults with glioma who require both MRI and PET scans to determine if this new approach can better assess their condition. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of the new MRI method in an initial, smaller group of participants, offering them a chance to contribute to advancements in brain tumor imaging.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this aMRI approach is safe for diagnosing glioma?
Research shows that a new imaging method called aMRI is under study for diagnosing brain tumors. Earlier studies have developed MRI techniques that reveal how brain tumors use energy, similar to PET scans. However, these studies mainly discuss the technology's potential and lack specific safety information about aMRI.
This trial is observational, meaning it doesn't test a new drug or involve invasive treatments, which usually increases safety. MRI is widely used in medicine and is known to be safe. The aMRI method builds on existing MRI techniques, so it is likely to be well-tolerated. The study also uses standard PET imaging, which involves a small amount of radioactive glucose. PET scans are common and considered safe, though they do involve some radiation exposure. Overall, while direct safety data for aMRI is limited, the components used in the study are generally considered safe in medical settings.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores a novel metabolic imaging approach (aMRI) for brain cancer. Unlike traditional imaging methods, this technique combines ¹⁸FDG PET and MRI scans simultaneously, offering a more detailed view of the brain's metabolic activity. This dual approach could lead to earlier and more precise detection of brain tumors, potentially improving treatment decisions and outcomes. By highlighting metabolic changes in real time, this method aims to provide a clearer picture of how brain cancer behaves, which could revolutionize how doctors diagnose and monitor the disease.
What evidence suggests that this aMRI approach is effective for evaluating glioma?
Research has shown that a new imaging method called aMRI might provide better insights into how brain tumors use energy compared to current techniques. Unlike regular MRI, which captures detailed images, aMRI examines how tumor cells consume energy. Studies suggest that understanding these energy changes can help doctors diagnose brain tumors more accurately. Early results indicate that mapping how tumors use energy could guide treatments and improve patient outcomes. This trial compares the aMRI method to PET scans, the current standard for assessing metabolic activity, which are more costly and less accessible.12678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Martin Pike, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
OHSU Knight Cancer Institute
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 with gliomas needing MRI and PET scans. It's not for those with sickle cell disease, uncertain pregnancy status, pregnant or breastfeeding women, people unable to consent, overweight beyond equipment limits, metallic/unsafe implants in the body, reduced kidney function (GFR < 45), other risky health conditions as judged by the investigator, poor vein access for IVs, serious illnesses like uncontrolled infections or diabetes type II that could affect study results or compliance.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Imaging
Participants receive ¹⁸FDG IV, then 60 minutes later undergo simultaneous MRI and PET scanning. During this scanning period, patients will receive gadoterate meglumine IV to obtain post-contrast MRI.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after imaging procedures
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Developing a New Metabolic Imaging Approach (aMRI)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
OHSU Knight Cancer Institute
Lead Sponsor
Oregon Health and Science University
Collaborator