Using brain tumor tissue to predict drug response

A Feasibility Study to Determine if a Novel Patient-derived Explant Platform Can Produce Drug Sensitivity Scores Within a Clinically Relevant Time Frame in Patients With CNS Tumors

UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center · NCT05978557

This study is trying to see if testing tumor tissue from patients with brain tumors can help find the best treatments for both kids and adults.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment50 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center (other)
Locations1 site (Chapel Hill, North Carolina)
Trial IDNCT05978557 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to evaluate the feasibility of using patient-derived explants (PDE) from resected central nervous system (CNS) tumors to predict drug response in both pediatric and adult patients. By testing tumor tissue ex vivo, the study seeks to generate drug sensitivity scores that could help identify the most effective therapies for individuals with CNS tumors. The research addresses the challenge of tumor heterogeneity and aims to establish a functional precision oncology platform for better treatment outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with a CNS tumor who are scheduled for surgical resection.

Not a fit: Patients with serious medical or psychiatric disorders that impede informed consent or those who are incarcerated may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more personalized and effective treatment options for patients with CNS tumors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using patient-derived explants in other cancers have shown promise, suggesting potential success for this novel approach in CNS tumors.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
In order to participate in this study a subject must meet all of the eligibility criteria outlined below.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Written informed consent obtained to participate in the study and HIPAA authorization for the release of personal health information or written assent and parental consent for pediatric subjects or surrogate consent provided by the subject's legally authorized guardians.
2. A diagnosis of a tumor residing in the central nervous system with surgery plan to have surgical resection.
3. The subject is willing and able to comply with study procedures based on the judgment of the investigator or protocol designer.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. All subjects must not meet any of the following exclusion criteria prior to enrollment to participate in this study:

   Any serious medical or psychiatric disorder that would interfere with the subject's ability to give informed consent.
2. Incarcerated individuals.

Where this trial is running

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Central Nervous System Tumor, patient-derived explant, tissue

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.