Comparing proton and photon radiation therapy for glioblastoma
Official title: Glioblastoma Radiotherapy Using IMRT or Proton Beams
Run by University Hospital Heidelberg · NCT04752280 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether proton beam therapy is better than traditional photon beam therapy for treating glioblastoma by looking at side effects in patients during the first four months of treatment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 326 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Hospital Heidelberg Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation |
| Locations | 3 sites (Heidelberg and 2 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 19, 2021 |
| Main results expected | September 19, 2030 |
| Study ends | January 19, 2033 |
| Registry record updated | May 27, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04752280 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older with histologically confirmed glioblastoma who are indicated for radiotherapy.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who have previously received brain radiation or have contraindications to MRI imaging may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of proton beam therapy compared to traditional photon beam therapy in patients with glioblastoma. It focuses on assessing the cumulative toxicity experienced by patients during the first four months of treatment. By utilizing proton beams, the study seeks to minimize damage to healthy brain tissue, potentially leading to reduced side effects. Patients will be randomly assigned to receive either photon or proton irradiation as part of their treatment regimen.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to a safer and more effective radiation therapy option for glioblastoma patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have suggested that proton therapy may reduce toxicity compared to photon therapy, indicating potential success for this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * histologically confirmed gliomblastoma WHO IV (operated or after biopsy) * Indication for radiotherapy / radiochemotherapy * Informed consent * KI ≥ 60% or ECOG 0/1 * Age ≥ 18 years * Sufficient effective contraception Exclusion Criteria: * Patient is not able to consent * Previous radiotherapy in the brain or skull base * Active medical implants for which there is no ion radiation authorization at the time of treatment (e.g., cardiac pacemaker, defibrillator, ...) * Contraindication to MRI imaging * Simultaneous participation in another clinical trial that could influence the outcome of this study or other study
Where it's running
-
Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg
Heidelberg, Germany Recruiting -
Universitätsklinikum Gießen und Marburg
Marburg, Germany Not yet recruiting -
Klinikum Stuttgart
Stuttgart, Germany Not yet recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Laila König, Prof. Dr. — University Hospital of Heidelberg, Radiation Oncology
- Study coordinator: Laila König, Prof. Dr.
- Email: studien.radonk@med.uni-heidelberg.de
- Phone: +49 6221 56 36318
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.