Metabolic analysis of brain tumors using advanced MRI techniques

Metabolic Characterization of Space Occupying Lesions of the Brain Using in Vivo MR- (Spectroscopic) Imaging at 3 Tesla and 7 Tesla

Observational Insel Gruppe AG, University Hospital Bern · NCT04233788

This study is testing advanced MRI techniques to see if they can help identify specific changes in brain tumors that could improve treatment and survival for patients with gliomas.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment55 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorInsel Gruppe AG, University Hospital Bern Academic / other
Locations1 site (Bern)
Trial IDNCT04233788 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to utilize high-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologies, specifically 3 Tesla and 7 Tesla scanners, to enhance metabolic spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) and chemical exchange saturation transfer imaging (CEST) for the characterization of brain tumors, particularly gliomas. The focus is on measuring the presence of 2-hydroxy-glutarate (2HG), a metabolite indicative of IDH mutations in gliomas, which are associated with improved patient survival. A total of 75 patients with suspected brain masses and 50 healthy controls will be examined to evaluate the effectiveness of these imaging techniques in preoperative IDH-status prediction. The study seeks to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning for patients with brain tumors.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients with suspected brain tumors and healthy individuals who can tolerate MRI scanning.

Not a fit: Patients under 18, those with a history of oncological or neurodegenerative conditions, or individuals with active implants may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate preoperative assessments of glioma patients, potentially improving treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results using advanced MRI techniques for brain tumor diagnostics, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Healthy people who are able to lie in the MR scanner for one hour;
* Patients with suspected mass in the brain
* Written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Persons under the age of 18
* Persons who are mentally unable to choose to participate
* Pregnant women
* Patients with oncological findings or neurodegenerative findings in the past
* Wearing active implants (e.g. pacemakers and neurostimulators)
* Emergency patients
* Persons with tattoos on the head or neck area

Where this trial is running

Bern

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 TumorGliomaIDH MutationMagnetic Resonance Spectroscopic ImagingChemical exchange saturation transfer imagingPulse sequence developmentPreoperative prediction of IDH-statusQuantitative MRI
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.