Examining brain changes in cancer-related weight loss

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the differences in brain structure and function between individuals with cancer-related weight loss and healthy volunteers. Researchers will utilize MRI scans to assess brain areas associated with appetite control and motivation, while participants will complete questionnaires and computer-based tasks to evaluate their appetite and eating motivation. The study aims to uncover how cancer affects body-to-brain signals that may lead to appetite changes and weight loss. By comparing these factors in both groups, the study seeks to enhance understanding of cancer cachexia.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

General inclusion criteria for all groups:

* Written informed consent
* Aged 18 years or over
* Willing and able to comply with study procedures and visits

Additional inclusion criteria for participants with cancer:

* Histological or cytological diagnosis of cancer or confirmed non-intracranial malignancy on imaging.
* Unintended documented weight loss of \>5% body weight in 6 months which is felt to be cancer related, OR patient reported weight loss and/or change in appetite

Exclusion Criteria:

General exclusion criteria for all groups:

* Non-fluent English speaker
* Active infection, as determined by the investigator based on clinical symptoms and / or fever and / or requirement for antibiotics
* Women, who are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are lactating.
* MRI contraindication
* A significant acute, chronic or psychiatric condition which in the judgement of the investigator would place the volunteer at undue risk or interfere with the study
* Metabolically or clinically unstable on day of study visit
* Artificial nutrition
* Taking medications which, as determined by the investigator, may affect appetite or cognition, or otherwise affect completion of study tasks.
* Weight or body circumference above upper threshold for MRI scanner (220kg)
* Unresolved obstructive gastrointestinal (GI) lesion

Additional exclusion criteria for participants with cancer:

• Intracranial cancer or metastatic intracranial involvement of cancer

Additional exclusion criteria for healthy volunteers:

* Have, or be recovering from, any form of cancer
* Unintentional weight loss of \>5% body weight or unexplained loss of appetite

Where it's running

• University of Cambridge
  Cambridge, United Kingdom Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Anthony P Coll — University of Cambridge
• Study coordinator: Anthony P Coll, MD PHD
• Email: apc36@cam.ac.uk
• Phone: 01223 769041

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.