Investigating Glutamate Levels in Brain Metastases from Lung, Breast, and Melanoma Cancers

Glutamate Excitotoxicity in Brain Metastases From Lung, Breast and Melanoma Treated With Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Observational IRCCS San Raffaele · NCT04785521

This study is trying to see if measuring glutamate levels in the brain can help improve treatment for patients with brain metastases from lung, breast, and melanoma cancers who are getting a specific type of radiation therapy.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorIRCCS San Raffaele Academic / other
Locations1 site (Milan)
Trial IDNCT04785521 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to explore the balance of glutamate in patients with brain metastases (BM) from lung, breast, and melanoma cancers who are candidates for stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). A total of 100 patients will be divided into three groups: those with BM, a control group with the same primary tumors but no metastases, and another control group with benign intracranial lesions. Serum levels of various biomarkers will be collected and analyzed before and after SRS treatment, alongside MRI imaging at specified follow-up intervals. The goal is to identify potential biomarkers that could serve as therapeutic targets for improving patient outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adult patients newly diagnosed with brain metastases from lung, breast, or melanoma cancers who are eligible for SRS treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with acute or chronic liver disease, severe anemia, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to the identification of new biomarkers that may improve treatment strategies for patients with brain metastases.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of investigating glutamate levels in this context is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding biomarkers in cancer treatment.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria (Target group)

* Adult patients carrying melanoma, breast or lung cancer BM of new diagnosis
* Patients eligible to SRS-GK treatment

Inclusion Criteria (Control group 1)

- Adult patients carrying melanoma, breast or lung cancer without BM

Inclusion Criteria (Control group 2)

* Adult patients carrying intracranial extra-axial benign tumor
* Patients eligible to SRS-GK treatment

Exclusion Criteria:

* Acute or chronic liver disease
* Severe anemia (Hb \<8g/dl)
* Pregnant or breastfeeding patient
* Pediatric patients
* Patients not able to express informed consent

Where this trial is running

Milan

Study contacts

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 Brain Metastases, AdultBrain metastasesGlutamateStereotactic radiosurgery
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.