Not yet recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Establishing Radiolabelled PSMA as a Target for Glioma Treatment

This study is investigating a new imaging method to help understand aggressive brain tumours, called gliomas, in adults. It uses a special scan called a PET-MRI with a unique tracing substance that specifically looks for a marker called PSMA, which might show how aggressive a tumour is. Imaging the amount and spread of this marker in brain tumours could give doctors important information for planning when and how to treat them. Experts believe that if we can clearly 'map' this marker, it could lead to 'theranostics' – a two-step approach where we first find and then specifically target and destroy cancer cells. This method has already shown success in prostate cancer, and researchers hope it can also help people with aggressive brain tumours.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

King's College Hospital NHS Trust

Enrolment target

Start

01 Aug 2022

Estimated completion

01 May 2027

Glioma, Malignant

What is this study about?

This research is looking into a new way to get a more detailed picture of primary brain tumours, specifically the more aggressive types called gliomas, in adults. We're using a special scanning method known as PET-MRI. This scan involves a unique substance that lights up a particular molecule inside the tumour called PSMA. Scientists think that the amount of PSMA could show how active or aggressive a brain tumour is.

By 'mapping' where this PSMA molecule is and how much of it there is, doctors hope to get vital information. This information could help them decide on the best timing and type of treatment for each person. The goal is to make sure treatments are as effective and as targeted as possible, potentially reducing side effects on healthy brain tissue.

This kind of approach, where we first find a target and then develop a way to treat it, is called 'theranostic' – a combination of 'diagnostic' (finding it) and 'therapeutic' (treating it). Experts are particularly interested in PSMA because a similar method has already been very successful in treating prostate cancer. This success in prostate cancer, along with early findings that PSMA is also found in aggressive brain tumours, gives hope that this new study could be a step towards better treatments for glioma patients.

Key takeaways

This study uses a special scan (PET-MRI) to map aggressive brain tumours.
It looks for a specific marker called PSMA, which might show how active a tumour is.
The goal is to gather information to help doctors plan better treatments.
This method has shown promise in prostate cancer, offering hope for brain tumours.
Taking part means having a specific scan and a tumour tissue sample analysed.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or older. To be considered, you would need to be scheduled for surgery (either to remove part of the tumour or take a small sample) because doctors suspect you have a high-grade primary brain tumour. This suspicion would be based on what they see in your initial scans. You would also need to have had full-body scans to make sure the cancer hasn't spread from elsewhere in your body.

There are a few reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you're already taking part in another drug trial, or if you can't have an MRI scan with contrast (a special dye), or if a radioactive tracer isn't suitable for you. You also wouldn't be able to join if you can't give your informed consent, or if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

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?
Are you scheduled for surgery (to remove part or all of a suspected aggressive brain tumour, or to take a biopsy)?
Have other tests ruled out cancer spreading from elsewhere in your body?
Are you pregnant or planning to become pregnant soon? (If yes, you cannot join.)
Have you been told you cannot have an MRI scan with contrast dye or a radioactive tracing substance? (If yes, you cannot join.)
Are you currently taking part in another drug trial? (If yes, you cannot join.)

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The detailed description of what taking part involves is not provided in the brief or detailed summary. However, based on the interventions, participants would likely undergo a PET-MRI scan. They would also provide a brain tumour biopsy, which means a small piece of the tumour would be removed during surgery. The brief summary mentions 'observing' and 'mapping', suggesting the primary involvement is related to imaging and tissue analysis rather than medication. The total duration of participation can't be determined from the provided text.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer the benefit of contributing to new knowledge about aggressive brain tumours, potentially leading to better treatments in the future. There are potential risks associated with the PET-MRI scan, such as exposure to a small amount of radiation from the tracer, and possible side effects from the MRI contrast dye, though these are generally considered safe. There are also risks associated with a brain tumour biopsy, which is a surgical procedure. As with any clinical study, you have the right to withdraw at any time without affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

King's College London
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is a glioma?

A glioma is a type of brain tumour that starts in the glial cells, which support nerve cells. Some gliomas can grow quite quickly and are considered aggressive.

What is PSMA?

PSMA stands for Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen. It's a special protein found on the surface of some cancer cells, including prostate cancer, and may also be present on certain aggressive brain tumour cells.

What is a PET-MRI scan?

A PET-MRI scan is a special imaging test that combines two types of scans: a PET scan, which shows activity in your body, and an MRI scan, which creates detailed pictures of your organs and soft tissues. Together, they can give a very clear picture.

Is this a treatment study?

This particular study is focused on whether a specialised imaging technique can help us understand and 'map' aggressive brain tumours better. While the long-term goal is to develop new treatments, this specific study is about gathering information through scans and tissue analysis.

What does 'radiolabelled' mean?

When something is 'radiolabelled', it means a small, safe amount of a radioactive substance is attached to it. This substance then acts like a beacon that can be seen by special scanners, allowing doctors to track it in the body.

How to find out more

Thomas C Booth, PhD

thomasbooth@nhs.net 07977509937 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.