Using advanced MRI techniques to differentiate between benign and malignant kidney masses

Investigation of Differential Biology of Benign and Malignant Renal Masses Using Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging Techniques

Not applicable Interventional University of Cambridge · NCT06016075

This study is testing advanced MRI techniques to see if they can help doctors tell the difference between harmless and harmful kidney masses, so patients can avoid unnecessary surgeries.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Cambridge Academic / other
Locations1 site (Cambridge, Cambridgeshire)
Trial IDNCT06016075 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to develop non-invasive imaging techniques to better understand the biology of renal masses, both benign and malignant. It utilizes advanced MRI methods, including Hyperpolarised MRI, Sodium MRI, and Deuterium metabolic imaging, to acquire detailed imaging data from human tissues. Participants will receive injections of hyperpolarised 13C pyruvate or consume deuterated glucose, allowing researchers to monitor metabolic changes in the kidney masses. The goal is to optimize imaging protocols to reduce unnecessary surgeries and biopsies for patients with renal masses.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults over 18 with radiologically suspected or pathologically confirmed benign or malignant renal masses.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have contraindications to MRI will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate diagnoses and reduce unnecessary treatments for patients with kidney masses.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies using advanced imaging techniques have shown promise, but this specific approach is novel and untested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Over 18 years old
* Able to and provide written informed consent to participate
* If female, postmenopausal or if women of child bearing potential (WOCBP) using a suitable contraception
* If male, using a suitable contraceptive method for the duration of the study
* Radiologically suspected or pathologically confirmed benign or malignant renal masses, as determined by standard clinical practice
* Capable of undergoing a minimum of one study visit

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contraindication or inability to tolerate MRI
* Pregnant or actively breast-feeding woman
* If using an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) as a method of contraception the device should be MRI safe at 3 T (researcher to confirm)
* Clinically significant cardiac, pulmonary or neurological diseases as determined by the investigators
* Laboratory abnormalities that may impact on the study results
* Any other significant medical or psychiatric history rendering the subject ineligible as deemed by the investigators

Where this trial is running

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

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 Kidney Cancer
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.