Investigating MRI Biomarkers in Head and Neck Cancer Treatment
Official title: HN QUEST- Evaluation of Online MRgRT and Repeat Functional Imaging in Patients Undergoing Curative (CT)RT for HN Malignancy
Run by University Health Network, Toronto · NCT05919290 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if MRI scans can help doctors better tailor treatment for patients with newly diagnosed head and neck cancer to improve their outcomes and reduce side effects.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 173 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Health Network, Toronto Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation, chemotherapy |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 26, 2023 |
| Main results expected | July 1, 2029 |
| Study ends | July 1, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | March 5, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05919290 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 HNSCC and planned for curative treatment.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with systemic diseases, contraindications for MRI, or those who have had previous solid tumors treated within the last five years 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 explore the use of MRI imaging biomarkers in patients with newly diagnosed Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) undergoing curative therapy. It consists of two arms: one involving up to 100 HNSCC patients receiving weekly non-contrast MRI scans during treatment, and another with healthy volunteers and HNSCC patients undergoing multiple MRI scans at different treatment stages. The goal is to develop predictive and prognostic biomarkers that can personalize radiotherapy based on early patient responses. This approach seeks to improve treatment efficacy while minimizing long-term side effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more personalized and effective treatment strategies for patients with head and neck cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using imaging biomarkers for treatment personalization, indicating this approach has potential based on prior successes.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria for Cancer Patients: * Age \>/= 18 years * Histologically proven Head and Neck Squamous Cell carcinoma * Primary or nodal disease \> 3cm for biomarker imaging * Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) Performance Status 0-2 * Planned for curative surgery or (chemo)radiotherapy * Willingness to undergo repeat MRI * Able to receive and understand verbal and written information regarding study and able to give written informed consent * Adequate renal function: Calculated creatinine clearance \>/= 30ml/min * Be able to lie comfortably on back for 1 hour Exclusion Criteria for Cancer Patients: * As judged by investigator evidence of systemic disease that makes unsuitable for study * Contra-indication for serial MRI scans * Previous solid tumor treated within last 5 years * Pregnancy * History of significant obstructive airway disease * History of gadolinium contrast allergy Inclusion Criteria for Healthy Volunteers * Age \>/= 18 years * Able to receive and understand verbal and written information regarding study and able to give written informed consent * Willingness to undergo repeat MRI Exclusion Criteria for Healthy Volunteers * Unwillingness to sign informed consent * Contra-indication for MRI * Underlying significant respiratory disease
Where it's running
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Princess Margaret Cancer Centre
Toronto, Ontario, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Andrew McPartlin, MD — Radiation Oncologist
- Study coordinator: Rehab Chahin, MD
- Email: Rehab.Chahin@uhn.ca
- Phone: 416-946-4501
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Neoadjuvant therapy with nimotuzumab, toripalimab, nab-paclitaxel, and cisplatin for locally advanced head and neck cancer
This study tests a pre-surgery treatment combining targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy to see if it helps patients with locally advanced, resectable head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
-
ICG with near-infrared imaging to visualize head and neck cancer during surgery
This study tests whether first-window indocyanine green fluorescence seen during surgery matches the cancer extent seen on pathology in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
-
ABBV-253 in adults with advanced solid tumors
This study tests ABBV-253 to see if it is safe, how it affects the cancer, and how the drug moves in the body for adults with advanced solid tumors.
-
Online Sharing for Head & Neck Cancer Support
A mobile app designed for adults with head and neck cancer undergoing radiotherapy to see if daily social sharing and peer interaction can help reduce psychological distress.
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Telisotuzumab Adizutecan with Pembrolizumab as first-line treatment for recurrent or metastatic head and neck cancer
This study tests a combination treatment to see if it helps people with newly diagnosed recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who express the c-Met protein.
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Mild heat therapy added to standard treatment for locally advanced head and neck cancer
This early-stage trial tests whether mild hyperthermia can be safely added to standard radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy for locally advanced head and neck cancer.
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.