Assessing changes in an inflammation signal (interleukin 1) in vestibular schwannoma
This study is investigating a brain tumour called vestibular schwannoma (VS). We know that inflammation can make these tumours grow. A drug called anakinra (Kineret®) targets a specific inflammation signal. This study aims to find out if anakinra can reduce inflammation and slow tumour growth in VS. We'll be looking for changes in specific markers in the blood and on MRI scans before and after taking the drug. This research helps us understand if anakinra could be a future treatment option for VS, and how best to measure its effects. If you're an adult scheduled for surgery for a growing VS, you might be able to take part.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is about a type of non-cancerous brain tumour called a vestibular schwannoma, often shortened to VS. We know that these tumours sometimes grow, and we've found that a natural chemical in the body, called interleukin-1 (IL-1), which is involved in inflammation, is often increased in tumours that are growing. We think this inflammation might be making the tumours grow faster.
There's a medicine called anakinra (you might know it as Kineret®) which works by blocking this IL-1 chemical. Anakinra is already used to treat other inflammatory conditions, like certain types of arthritis, and it's generally considered safe. In this study, we want to see if giving anakinra could help reduce the inflammation and potentially slow down the growth of vestibular schwannomas.
The main goal isn't to cure the tumour in this specific study, but to find the best ways to measure if anakinra is actually having an effect within the tumour. This means we'll be looking closely at different signals in your body and changes in the tumour itself. The information we gather will be really important for designing future studies and hopefully leading to new, effective treatments for people with vestibular schwannomas.
Key takeaways
- This study investigates an inflammation pathway in vestibular schwannoma.
- The drug anakinra (Kineret®) will be given daily for 14 days.
- The aim is to find ways to measure if the drug is affecting the tumour.
- Participation involves MRI scans, blood tests, and tumour tissue analysis after surgery.
- The study helps pave the way for future treatments for vestibular schwannoma.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 or older who have been diagnosed with a vestibular schwannoma that is currently growing. You would also need to be scheduled for surgery to remove part of this tumour.
There are certain reasons why you might not be able to join the study. For example, if you have other serious health conditions like active tuberculosis, certain liver problems (hepatitis), or if your diagnosis of a VS isn't completely clear. We also can't include people who have had certain vaccinations recently, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have certain allergies to the study drug.
If you're taking specific medications that might interact with the study drug, or if you've recently taken part in another clinical trial, you might also not be able to join. The study team will check all these details to make sure it's safe for you to participate.
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 vestibular schwannoma that is currently growing?
- Are you scheduled for surgery to remove your tumour?
- Do you have any serious active infections like tuberculosis or hepatitis?
- Are you pregnant or breastfeeding, or planning to be?
- Have you recently received a live vaccination or participated in another drug trial?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll first have a special MRI scan and give some blood samples. These are done to get a starting point before treatment. After these initial tests, you'll receive the study drug, anakinra. This is given as an injection just under the skin once a day for 14 days. A trained member of the research team will come to your home to give you these injections.
After the 14 days of injections, you'll have another MRI scan and blood tests, just like the first set. This is so we can compare the results and see if there are any changes. During your planned surgery, a small amount of extra tumour tissue will be collected. This tissue will be carefully examined in the lab to look for changes related to inflammation. In total, your active participation with scans, blood tests, and injections will last about two weeks, ending with your planned surgery.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation TrustCity onlySalford, England
Common questions
What is a vestibular schwannoma?
It's a non-cancerous growth that develops on the main nerve leading from your inner ear to your brain. It's also known as an acoustic neuroma.
What is anakinra (Kineret®) and how is it given?
Anakinra is a medicine that helps reduce inflammation. It's given as a daily injection just under the skin for 14 days by a trained professional.
Will this study cure my tumour?
No, the main goal of this study is to understand if anakinra affects tumour inflammation and to find the best ways to measure these changes, not to cure the tumour directly in this trial.
What are the main tests involved?
You'll have special MRI scans and blood tests before and after taking the study drug. Some tumour tissue will also be studied after your planned surgery.
Can I choose to leave the study at any time?
Yes, you are free to withdraw from the study at any point without it affecting your medical care.
How to find out more
Daniel Lewis
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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