Mapping Molecular Markers of Brain Tumour Activity Using MRI
This study explores new MRI scans to detect early signs of brain tumour activity in people with glioma. Tumour cells that are growing and forming new blood vessels show specific changes that current MRI scans might miss in their earliest stages. This research aims to make these early changes visible on scan. Doctors want to see if these new MRI techniques can accurately map where a tumour is most active and where it's more stable by comparing the scan results with small tissue samples taken during surgery. This could help doctors better understand and predict how brain tumours grow, potentially improving future treatment decisions.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When someone has a brain tumour called a glioma, the cells inside the tumour behave differently. Some cells are very active, multiplying quickly and even starting to build new blood vessels to help the tumour grow. These active areas have specific molecular 'footprints' – like tiny chemical signals – that are different from areas where the tumour cells are more stable. Currently, standard MRI scans might not show these early signs of activity until the tumour has already grown noticeably.
This study is trying to bridge that gap. Researchers are using advanced, non-invasive MRI techniques to see if they can detect these early 'molecular footprints' and changes in blood vessels. By making these signs visible on a scan, doctors hope to get a much earlier and clearer picture of how active a tumour is. This information could be very valuable for understanding how the tumour might behave and planning the best way to treat it.
To make sure these new MRI scans are accurate, the study involves taking tiny tissue samples (biopsies) from different parts of the tumour during surgery. These samples will be analysed to see if the activity seen on the special MRI scans matches the actual cell activity found in the tissue. This project is a collaboration between expert teams in London and the Netherlands, working together to improve our understanding and monitoring of brain tumours.
Key takeaways
- New MRI techniques are used to find early signs of brain tumour activity.
- Aims to predict tumour growth more accurately than current methods.
- Involves extra MRI scans and small tissue samples during surgery.
- Helps improve understanding of glioma behaviour for future treatments.
- This is a research study, not a change to your direct clinical care.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a primary brain tumour. Your doctors must have already planned for you to have surgery to remove all or part of this tumour, or to take a small sample (biopsy) of it.
Before you can take part, you'll also need to give your written consent, meaning you understand the study and agree to participate. This is especially important for research studies.
There are a few reasons why someone might not be able to join. For example, if you can't have an MRI scan with contrast dye (a special liquid that helps show things more clearly on the scan), or if you are currently having chemotherapy. Also, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you won't be able to participate. It's also important that you are able to understand and agree to take part.
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?
- Do you have a primary brain tumour?
- Is your doctor planning surgery (resection or biopsy) for your tumour?
- Can you have an MRI scan with contrast dye?
- Are you NOT pregnant or planning to become pregnant?
- Are you NOT currently having chemotherapy?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you will have some extra MRI scans. These special scans will be added to your usual MRI checks before your surgery. The MRI scan itself will last about 60 minutes, which is roughly 30 minutes longer than a standard brain tumour scan. These scans will provide more detailed information about your tumour’s structure and how it’s working.
During your surgery, your neurosurgeon will take three tiny tissue samples from your tumour, guided by computers using the information from the special MRI scans. This will add about 30 minutes to your surgery time (which usually takes about 4 hours). After your surgery, you will have up to two more MRI scans, if needed: one after surgery and potentially another one if the tumour changes. Each of these follow-up scans will also take a maximum of 60 minutes. All your routine surgical care and hospital stays will primarily happen at King's College Hospital, with the research scans typically taking place at Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- King's R&I departmentVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is a glioma?
A glioma is a common type of brain tumour that starts in the glial cells, which are supportive cells in the brain.
What is an MRI scan?
An MRI scan uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body, including your brain.
Will this study change my treatment?
The information from this study is for research purposes and won't directly change your planned surgery or immediate treatment. It aims to improve future understanding.
How long will I be in the study?
The study involves scans before and after your surgery, and potentially one more if needed, over a period relevant to your treatment and recovery.
Are the extra biopsies safe?
The biopsies are a standard procedure during brain surgery, but taking a few extra does slightly extend the surgical time and associated risks, which your surgical team will explain.
How to find out more
Thomas C Booth, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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