RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

METEL Study Which is to Collect Urine Samples From Patients to Analyse Their Chemistry to Assess How Close to Death the Patient is at Point of Sample When They Have a Solid Cancer Tumour Diagnosis

The METEL study is a research project designed to help us understand more about how people with solid cancer (a tumour that isn't blood cancer) pass away. Surprisingly, we don't fully understand the process. This study will collect urine samples from patients who have been diagnosed with solid cancer. Researchers will then analyse the chemistry of these urine samples. By doing this, they hope to find certain chemical markers or changes that could help explain what happens in the body as someone with cancer approaches the end of their life. This information could eventually help doctors better support patients and their families.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust

Enrolment target

1,327

Start

01 May 2026

Estimated completion

28 Feb 2028

Solid Tumor Cancer

What is this study about?

When someone has a solid cancer, it's often difficult for doctors to predict exactly how and when they might pass away. There's a lot we still don't understand about the specific changes that happen in the body as someone with cancer nears the end of their life. This study is being done because current ideas about why people with cancer die often don't fully explain what doctors see.

For example, while some people might have infections or blood clots, doctors often feel these aren't the main cause of death. Instead, it's thought that a broader 'dying process' happens within the body. Researchers have noticed certain common changes in people with cancer who are nearing the end of their lives, such as changes in inflammation, blood, weight loss, and how the liver and kidneys work. However, this process hasn't been clearly described yet.

The METEL study aims to look more closely at these body changes. By collecting urine samples from patients with solid cancer, researchers hope to identify specific chemical patterns in the urine. These patterns could help us understand the 'dying process' in cancer patients more clearly. This knowledge could eventually lead to better care and support for people with cancer and their families during a difficult time.

Key takeaways

The study aims to understand how solid cancer patients die.
It involves collecting urine samples to analyse body chemistry.
No new treatments or extra appointments are involved.
Results will help improve care for future cancer patients.
You can stop participating at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for volunteers who have a diagnosis of a solid cancer. A solid cancer is a type of cancer that forms a lump or tumour, rather than affecting blood cells like leukaemia.

To take part, you must be aged 18 or over. You also need to be able to understand and speak English well enough to give your permission to join the study and follow instructions. You must be able to provide a urine sample, either by passing urine normally or if you have a catheter (a thin tube inserted into your bladder).

You wouldn't be able to join the study if you don't have a solid cancer diagnosis, are under 18, can't understand English, or are unable to give a urine sample. Everyone who joins must agree to take part after fully understanding what the study involves.

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.

Do I have a diagnosis of a solid cancer?
Am I 18 years old or older?
Can I understand and speak English?
Am I able to provide a urine sample (either normally or with a catheter)?
Am I able to give my full permission to join the study?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The study involves providing urine samples. The researchers will let you know how often and when these samples will be needed. You will not receive any new medications or treatments as part of this study, nor will it involve any additional hospital visits beyond what you would normally have for your cancer care. There are no special assessments or follow-up appointments solely for this study. The total duration of your participation will depend on the study's needs for urine samples, which will be explained to you in detail.

Potential risks and benefits

The main benefit of taking part is helping researchers understand more about how cancer affects the body towards the end of life. This knowledge could help improve care for future patients. The risks are very low, as it only involves giving urine samples, which is a simple and generally safe procedure. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Clatterbridge Cancer Centre
Verified postcode
Liverpool, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is a 'solid cancer'?

A solid cancer is a type of cancer that grows as a lump or mass of tissue, like breast cancer or lung cancer. It's different from blood cancers like leukaemia.

Will this study affect my cancer treatment?

No, taking part in this study will not affect your current cancer treatment or your regular medical care in any way.

Do I need to do anything special to prepare for giving a urine sample?

The study team will give you clear instructions if any special preparation is needed, but generally, it's a straightforward process.

Will I get any results from my urine samples?

The study is looking at patterns across many samples, so individual results won't be shared. The findings will contribute to broader medical knowledge.

Who is running this study?

This study is being run by researchers trying to better understand the processes happening in the body of people with advanced cancer. It's an important step in improving future care.

How to find out more

Seamus Coyle Principal Investigator

s.coyle@liverpool.ac.uk 0151 556 5060 Official trial record

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