Using metabolomics to predict treatment response in rectal cancer

Metabolomic Profiles as Predictors of Treatment Response and Toxicities in Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer Undergoing Total Neoadjuvant Therapy

Observational Chang Gung Memorial Hospital · NCT06831669

This study is testing whether certain substances in the body can help predict how well patients with advanced rectal cancer will respond to a specific treatment plan and if they might face any side effects.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment250 (estimated)
Ages20 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorChang Gung Memorial Hospital Academic / other
Drugs / interventionsradiation, chemotherapy
Locations1 site (Guishan, Taoyuan)
Trial IDNCT06831669 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to evaluate the metabolomic profiles of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer who are scheduled to receive total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT). By collecting blood, urine, tissue, and fecal samples at various stages of treatment, the study seeks to identify specific metabolites that can predict how well patients will respond to TNT and the likelihood of experiencing treatment-related toxicities, such as radiation proctitis. The goal is to enhance precision health by selecting patients who are most likely to benefit from TNT while minimizing complications.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals with histologically confirmed adenocarcinoma of the rectum who are scheduled to receive total neoadjuvant therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who have previously undergone pelvic radiation therapy or have inflammatory bowel disease may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to personalized treatment plans that improve outcomes and reduce side effects for rectal cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that metabolomics can effectively predict treatment response and toxicity in cancer patients, although most prior studies have focused on long-course chemoradiotherapy.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Histologically confirmed adenocarcinoma of the rectum
* Scheduled to receive total neoadjuvant therapy

Exclusion Criteria:

* Previous pelvic radiation therapy
* Inflammatory bowel disease

Where this trial is running

Guishan, Taoyuan

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 Rectal Neoplasm MalignantRectal cancerTotal neoadjuvant therapyMetabolomicsRadiation proctitis
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.