AuthorisedTherapeutic exploratory (Phase II)Interventional

The Expression of Fibroblast Activation Protein in Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients

This study focuses on non-small cell lung cancer, a common type of lung cancer. Researchers are using a new scan called a FAPI PET scan, which involves a special tracer ([18F]FAPI-74). They want to see if this scan can effectively highlight and measure cancer, whether it's the main tumour, a cancer that has come back, or if it has spread to other parts of the body like lymph nodes. This is a Phase II study, meaning it's still an early stage but is exploring if this new method works and is safe. The main goal is to see how brightly the cancer lights up on the scan.

At a glance

Status

Authorised

Phase

Therapeutic exploratory (Phase II)

Sponsor

Turku University Hospital

Enrolment target

Start

16 Dec 2025

Non small cell lung cancer

What is this study about?

This study is about understanding how a new type of body scan, called a FAPI PET scan, can help doctors find and understand non-small cell lung cancer. When you have a PET scan, you're given a very small amount of a special substance (in this case, called [18F]FAPI-74) which travels through your body. This substance is designed to attach to cancer cells, making them light up on the scan. This can help doctors see where the cancer is and how active it is.

The main aim of this study is to see how well this special substance lights up different parts of the cancer – like the original tumour, any cancer that has returned, or if it has spread to areas like your lymph nodes or other distant parts of your body. Doctors will look at how bright these areas are on the scan, using measurements like SUVmax, SUVmean, and SUVpeak, which are ways to quantify this 'brightness'. This tells them how much of the special substance the cancer cells are taking up.

Another important part of this study is to see if what the FAPI PET scan shows actually matches up with what doctors find when they look at tissue samples (biopsies) under a microscope. This helps confirm that the scan is accurately identifying cancer cells. By doing this research, doctors hope to learn if this new scanning method could be a better way to find and monitor non-small cell lung cancer in the future.

Key takeaways

This study uses a new scanning method (FAPI PET) for non-small cell lung cancer.
It aims to see how well these scans can find and measure cancer.
The study involves special scans and medical check-ups.
It's an early-stage study (Phase II) exploring a new diagnostic tool.
Participation is voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is open to both men and women aged 18 years and older. There is no upper age limit, so older adults can also take part.

To be considered for this study, you must have been diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer. This study is looking at how a new scan works for people living with this specific type of cancer.

There might be other health conditions or medications that could prevent you from joining, but these will be discussed in detail with the study doctor.

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 been diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer?
Are you able to travel to the study site for appointments and scans?
Are you comfortable with undergoing new types of medical scans?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you will primarily undergo special FAPI PET scans. The study will involve giving you a small amount of the special substance, [18F]FAPI-74, and then performing the scan to see how your cancer responds. You will likely have multiple scans at different points to track the cancer. The total duration of your participation, including any follow-up appointments, would be explained fully by the study team, but typically for a Phase II study, this could last several months to a year or more. You will also have regular check-ups and assessments to monitor your health and the progress of the cancer.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in any medical study carries potential benefits and risks. A potential benefit of this study is helping researchers learn more about non-small cell lung cancer and how to better detect and understand it, which could help future patients. You might also gain a clearer picture of your own cancer through the advanced imaging, though this is not guaranteed to change your current treatment plan. As for risks, you will be exposed to a small amount of radiation from the PET scans and the special substance used, similar to other medical scans. There's also the chance of mild side effects from the substance, like allergic reactions, though these are rare. You will be closely monitored for any reactions. Remember, taking part is completely voluntary, and you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

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

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Unverified
Finland

Common questions

What exactly is non-small cell lung cancer?

It's the most common type of lung cancer. This study is focused specifically on this form of the disease.

What is a FAPI PET scan?

It's a special type of scan that uses a unique substance to help doctors see where cancer cells are in your body more clearly.

Will this study change my current cancer treatment?

The main goal of this study is to learn more about the scan, not necessarily to change your immediate treatment. This will be discussed fully by the study team.

What is Phase II of a clinical trial?

Phase II trials are an early stage where doctors test if a new treatment or method works and is safe in a larger group of people. It's not the final stage before being used widely.

Will I have to pay to be part of this study?

Generally, you do not pay to take part in a clinical trial. All costs related to the study's procedures will be covered. Travel expenses may also be reimbursed; please ask the study team about this.