Analyzing lung inflammation signals in cancer patients treated with radiotherapy

Single-Cell Sequencing Analysis of Radiation Pneumonitis Signals In Patients Treated For Cancer With Radiotherapy

Observational NHS Lothian · NCT06557343

This study is trying to understand the lung inflammation that some cancer patients experience after radiation treatment by looking closely at the cells involved.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment5 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorNHS Lothian Government
Drugs / interventionsRadiation, immunotherapy
Locations3 sites (Edinburgh and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06557343 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study focuses on patients exhibiting signs of radiation pneumonitis after receiving thoracic radiotherapy for cancer. Participants will undergo clinical bronchoscopy, during which samples will be collected for single-cell RNA sequencing. This innovative technique aims to identify the types of cells involved and their functions, enhancing the understanding of radiation pneumonitis, a serious complication of cancer treatment. The study seeks to unravel the underlying mechanisms of this condition, which can severely impact patient quality of life and survival.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 who have received thoracic radiotherapy and exhibit clinical or radiological signs of radiation pneumonitis.

Not a fit: Patients who are oxygen-dependent, require hospitalization, or have contraindications to bronchoscopy will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of radiation pneumonitis, potentially reducing its morbidity and mortality.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of single-cell sequencing is a relatively novel approach in this context, similar studies have shown promise in understanding complex inflammatory conditions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age over 18 years
* Patient has received thoracic radiotherapy and has clinical or radiological features in fitting with a diagnosis of Radiation Pneumonitis (onset one to four months post-RT with breathlessness, especially exertional, cough, chest discomfort, which is persistent over weeks, a chest x-ray \[CXR\] may demonstrate patchy or widespread opacification although can be normal.)
* Must be ambulant, oxygen independent with SpO2 \>92% on air and haemodynamically stable to be considered safe for a bronchoscopy.
* Willing to undergo and likely able to tolerate bronchoscopy, ie. Can lie flat without compromising ventilation, and able to consent to the ELFMAN Protocol and SPITFIRE trial.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contraindication to bronchoscopy, ie. Previously not tolerated, unable to lie flat, Sp02 \<92% on air
* Patient requires admission or oxygen dependant
* Test positive for Covid-19 within the preceding six weeks to enrolment

Where this trial is running

Edinburgh and 2 other locations

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Radiation Pneumonitisradiation pneumonitiscancersingle cell sequencing
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.