T2* MRI and blood tests to predict progression of malignant gliomas
Evaluating Iron-Dependent Biomarkers of Malignant Glioma (WHO Grade IV) Progression
This trial tests whether T2* MRI scans and blood biomarkers can help predict how WHO grade IV malignant gliomas will change or come back in adults.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 15 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Iowa Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy, radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Iowa City, Iowa) |
| Trial ID | NCT07447531 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This protocol combines T2* magnetic resonance imaging (an iron-sensitive MRI technique) with blood tests for iron-related cell-death biomarkers in adults newly diagnosed with WHO grade IV malignant glioma. Participants receive serial T2* MRI scans alongside their standard chemoradiation care on the MR Linac, and provide periodic blood samples for biomarker analysis. Imaging and blood biomarker changes are tracked over time to distinguish tumor recurrence from treatment-related changes such as inflammation. The study aims to determine whether these combined measures signal progression earlier or more reliably than standard MRI alone.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults older than 21 with a new, pathologically confirmed WHO grade IV malignant glioma, Karnofsky Performance Status over 60, and the ability to consent and undergo MR imaging are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Patients with prior recent malignancies, iron metabolic disorders (e.g., hemochromatosis), or who cannot undergo MRI due to size, claustrophobia, or metal implants are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enable earlier and more accurate detection of tumor recurrence, improving treatment decisions and potentially outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Prior work has shown increased iron content in WHO grade IV gliomas and changes in iron-related blood biomarkers with treatment, but using T2* MRI plus blood biomarkers together to predict recurrence is relatively novel and exploratory.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age \> 21 years * New pathologically confirmed diagnosis of WHO grade IV malignant glioma * KPS \> 60 * Ability to give informed consent for standard of care chemotherapy and radiation therapy on the MR Linac and to study procedures for the protocol Exclusion Criteria: * History of previous malignancy other than non-melanoma skin cancer in the previous 5 years * History of iron metabolic disorder such as hemochromatosis * Inability to undergo MR studies due to size, claustrophobia, or metal implants or devices
Where this trial is running
Iowa City, Iowa
- University of Iowa Health Care — Iowa City, Iowa, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: John Buatti, MD — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: John Buatti, MD
- Email: john-buatti@uiowa.edu
- Phone: (319) 356-7590
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.