Prospective Cohort of Patients With Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma: Analysis of MMP2 and MMP9 Expression and Correlation to Neuro-imaging Features.
This research is investigating glioblastoma, a serious type of brain tumour, in adults who have recently been diagnosed. The study focuses on two specific proteins, MMP2 and MMP9, which are found in the body. Previous research suggested these proteins might be linked to how well a specific treatment (bevacizumab) works. We want to understand if the levels and activity of these proteins in blood and tumour samples relate to the tumour's features seen on brain scans and how they change during treatment. By tracking these proteins before, during, and after surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, and seeing how they connect to what's happening with the tumour, we hope to learn if they could help doctors predict the best ways to treat glioblastoma in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is designed for adult patients who have recently been diagnosed with a type of brain tumour called glioblastoma. Glioblastoma is the most common and often aggressive brain tumour found in adults. Researchers are particularly interested in two specific proteins, called MMP2 and MMP9. These proteins are naturally present in our bodies and can be linked to how tumours grow and how blood vessels around them form, which is important for tumour survival.
A previous study hinted that the levels of these proteins in the blood might be connected to how well a certain treatment worked for patients with glioblastoma that had come back. However, doctors don't fully understand why this link exists. The main goal of this current study is to look closely at these MMP2 and MMP9 proteins in newly diagnosed patients. We want to see if the amounts of these proteins in the blood and in tumour samples, as well as how active they are, match up with what doctors see on special brain scans.
The study will also track how the levels of these proteins in the blood change around the time of surgery and during other treatments like radiotherapy and chemotherapy. By gathering all this information, the researchers hope to get a clearer picture of how MMP2 and MMP9 behave in patients with glioblastoma. This deeper understanding could eventually help doctors predict how a patient’s tumour might respond to treatment and guide them towards the most effective care.
Key takeaways
- Study focuses on Glioblastoma, a brain tumour.
- Investigates proteins MMP2 and MMP9 in blood and tumour.
- Aims to understand tumour behaviour and treatment response.
- Uses blood samples, tumour samples, and existing brain scans.
- No experimental treatments are given.
- Hopes to improve future glioblastoma care.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults, aged 18 or over, who have recently been diagnosed with a brain tumour that looks like glioblastoma on scans. You would need to be suitable for surgery to remove part or all of the tumour, and also for standard treatments like radiotherapy and chemotherapy (Stupp protocol).
Before deciding to take part, you would need to have had a brain scan (MRI) and be able to give your informed consent, meaning you understand the study and agree to participate. You must also be registered with a social security scheme, like the NHS in the UK.
There are certain reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you have conditions that prevent you from having an MRI scan, or if your tumour cannot be operated on. If you have previously had radiotherapy or chemotherapy for this specific tumour, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you would also not be able to take part. The study also excludes individuals in emergency situations or those unable to give consent.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you recently been diagnosed with a brain tumour that looks like glioblastoma?
- Are you having surgery for your tumour?
- Are you planning to have radiotherapy and chemotherapy?
- Are you able to have an MRI scan?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, doctors will collect blood samples at several key points: before and after your surgery, before you start radiotherapy, before you begin a specific chemotherapy treatment called adjuvant temozolomide, and if your tumour returns. When you have surgery, a small part of your tumour will also be collected and analysed. You will also have routine brain scans (MRIs) before and after surgery, and before starting your chemotherapy. These scans are part of your usual care, but for the study, researchers will specifically look at features like the size and spread of the tumour. The study will not involve any new medications or extra hospital visits beyond what is already planned for your treatment. The total duration of your participation would cover the course of your initial treatment and follow-up.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de MarseilleVerified postcodeMarseille, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is glioblastoma?
Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive type of brain tumour found in adults.
What are MMP2 and MMP9?
These are proteins in your body that researchers think might be linked to how brain tumours grow and respond to treatment.
Will I receive new treatment in this study?
No, this study only observes your progress and collects samples during your usual glioblastoma treatment; you will not receive any experimental treatments.
What will be done with my samples?
Blood and tumour samples will be analysed to measure levels of certain proteins and their activity, helping researchers understand more about glioblastoma.
Will I have extra tests?
You will have blood samples taken at various points during your treatment, and your brain scans (MRIs) will be used for research, but no extra MRI scans are planned.
How to find out more
Emeline TABOURET, PH
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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