RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

13C-Glucose Tracing of Tumour and T Cells in the Ascites of Ovarian Cancer Patients.

This research study aims to understand how cancer cells and immune cells in the fluid (ascites) that builds up in the tummy of ovarian cancer patients use sugar for energy. Doctors will give a special, safe type of sugar that can be traced ([U-13C]glucose) through a drip during a routine procedure to drain this fluid. By studying these cells and the fluid, scientists hope to learn more about how ovarian cancer grows and how best to fight it. This could help in finding new and more effective treatments for people with ovarian cancer. It's an observational study, meaning researchers will carefully watch and measure things without trying new treatments.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

British Columbia Cancer Agency

Enrolment target

Start

20 Oct 2021

Estimated completion

01 Aug 2024

Ovarian Cancer Ascites

What is this study about?

Ovarian cancer can sometimes cause fluid to build up in the tummy, a condition called ascites. This fluid contains both cancer cells and immune cells, and understanding how these cells get their energy is really important for developing new treatments. Think of it like trying to figure out what fuel an engine uses and how efficiently it's using it – if we know this, we can try to improve its performance or stop it from working.

This study will give a small amount of a special type of sugar, called [U-13C]glucose, to patients undergoing a routine procedure to drain their ascites fluid. This special sugar isn't radioactive or harmful; it's just a modified version of the sugar we normally eat, which allows scientists to track it inside the body. By tracking where this sugar goes and how the cells in the ascites fluid use it, researchers can get a much clearer picture of what's happening inside the tumour and how the body's immune system is responding.

The information gathered from this study is crucial. It helps researchers understand the 'metabolism' of these cells – basically, how they turn food into energy. This knowledge could help them identify new ways to target ovarian cancer cells, potentially leading to the development of more effective medicines or treatments in the future. It's a key step in improving care for patients with ovarian cancer.

Key takeaways

This study investigates how cancer cells and immune cells in ascites fluid use energy.
A safe, traceable sugar ([U-13C]glucose) will be given during ascites drainage.
The goal is to understand ovarian cancer better and find new treatment targets.
Participation involves one visit for the procedure and lasts about 5 hours.
It's an observational study, meaning no new treatments are tested on you.
The information gained could help many future ovarian cancer patients.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for women aged 18 or older who have ovarian cancer at any stage and who have fluid build-up (ascites) that needs to be drained. This includes patients experiencing ascites for the first time or those whose ascites has returned. You can be on any current treatment for your cancer, but you must be able to understand what the study involves and be happy to give your permission to take part.

However, there are a few reasons why you might not be able to join. You cannot have diabetes or have blood sugar levels that are too high or too low. Your blood sugar levels need to be within a healthy range, as recognised by health guidelines. Also, you cannot be having chemotherapy treatment during the five hours that the study will take for you, as this might affect the results.

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 ovarian cancer?
Do you have fluid in your tummy (ascites) that needs draining?
Do you NOT have diabetes or abnormal blood sugar levels?
Can you avoid chemotherapy treatment for a 5-hour period?
Do you understand what the study involves and feel able to give your consent?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll first be screened to make sure you meet the study's requirements. Before your scheduled appointment to drain the fluid from your tummy (paracentesis), you will have a small device, like a continuous glucose monitor (FreeStyle Libre), fitted. This device will help track your blood sugar levels.

During your paracentesis procedure, you will receive a special sugar ([U-13C]glucose) through a drip into your vein. This will happen in two stages: first, a small amount over 10 minutes, followed by a slightly smaller amount over the next hour. While the sugar is being given, some of your ascites fluid will be collected and kept on ice. These fluid samples will then be sent for special tests to see how the cells in the fluid used the special sugar and what other substances are present. The study takes about 5 hours from the start of the infusion. There are no follow-up visits specifically for the study after the procedure itself.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer a small personal benefit by helping you understand more about your condition, but the main benefit is for others. The information gained will improve our general understanding of ovarian cancer, which could help develop better treatments in the future. The risks are expected to be low, as the special sugar used is very safe, and the procedures involved (fluid drainage and IV drip) are standard medical practices. You will have a continuous glucose monitor to ensure your sugar levels remain normal. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Jennifer Rauw
Verified postcode
Victoria, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What is ascites?

Ascites is when fluid builds up in your tummy, which can happen with ovarian cancer. It often needs to be drained to make you more comfortable.

What is '[U-13C]glucose'?

It's a special, safe form of sugar that helps researchers track how cells use energy. It's not radioactive or harmful, just a way to 'label' the sugar.

Will this study affect my standard cancer treatment?

No, this is an observational study. It is designed so that it will not affect your ongoing cancer treatment, though you cannot receive chemotherapy on the day of the study.

Where does the study take place?

The study takes place at BC Cancer – Victoria for screening and recruitment, and the fluid drainage (paracentesis) takes place at Island Health – Royal Jubilee Hospital.

How long will I be involved in the study?

The active part of the study, including the special sugar infusion, will last for about 5 hours.

How to find out more

Julian J. Lum, PhD

jlum@bccancer.bc.ca 250-519-5700 Official trial record

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