Using hyperpolarized 13C MRI to visualize cancer metabolism

Hyperpolarized 13-C Pyruvate MRI Surveillance of Multiple Cancers

PHASE1; PHASE2 · University of Maryland, Baltimore · NCT05697406

This study is testing a new type of MRI that uses special imaging to see how tumors use energy, helping doctors understand different types of cancer better.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE1; PHASE2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment25 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 88 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Maryland, Baltimore (other)
Locations1 site (Baltimore, Maryland)
Trial IDNCT05697406 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the use of hyperpolarized 13C pyruvate MRI imaging to visualize metabolic processes in tumors, particularly focusing on the Warburg effect, where cancer cells convert pyruvate to lactate. By employing this advanced imaging technique, the study aims to detect and characterize various types of tumors based on their metabolic activity. The research will involve patients with confirmed tumor diagnoses who are scheduled for MR imaging, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of tumor metabolism in real-time. This approach seeks to improve upon traditional imaging methods that only assess early glycolytic activity.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients with a confirmed diagnosis of cancer who are scheduled for MR imaging.

Not a fit: Patients without a tumor diagnosis or those unable to undergo MR imaging will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this imaging technique could provide a more accurate and detailed understanding of tumor metabolism, leading to better diagnosis and treatment strategies for cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: While hyperpolarized 13C pyruvate imaging has shown promise in specific cancer models, its application in a broader range of tumors is still being explored, making this approach relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Clinical tumor diagnosis

Patients with pre-existing MR imaging appointments

Must be able to undergo MR

Exclusion Criteria:

No tumor diagnosis

Where this trial is running

Baltimore, Maryland

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: Image, Warburg Effect, Tumors

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.