Using MRI to evaluate low-grade brain tumors

A Multi-institutional Observational Study of CEST Imaging in Low-grade Glioma

This study is testing a special type of MRI to see if it can help doctors better understand and predict how low-grade brain tumors in younger patients might change over time.

Quick facts

• Phase: NA
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 100 (estimated)
• Ages: 12 Years and up
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre (other)
• Drugs / interventions: chemotherapy, radiation
• Locations: 2 sites (Toronto, Ontario and 1 other locations)
• Trial ID: NCT05996653 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project focuses on low-grade gliomas, which are malignant brain tumors that often affect younger individuals. The study utilizes a non-contrast metabolic MRI technique called Saturation Transfer (ST)-MRI to assess tumor progression and predict early changes in these tumors. By identifying patients whose tumors are likely to progress, the study aims to enable timely interventions. The ST-MRI method provides metabolic information that standard MRI cannot capture, enhancing the understanding of tumor behavior without the need for contrast agents.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 12 and older diagnosed with suspected low-grade gliomas or those post-surgery who are candidates for observation.

Not a fit: Patients requiring immediate treatment with chemotherapy or radiation therapy may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to earlier interventions for patients with low-grade gliomas, potentially improving outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of ST-MRI is a novel approach, similar studies utilizing advanced MRI techniques have shown promise in other tumor types.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Be at least 12 years of age;
2. Diagnosed with:

   1. Cohort A (pre-surgical): Suspected LGG (oligodendroglioma or astrocytoma), based on any combination of histological, molecular, radiological, and/or clinical findings; or
   2. Cohort B (post-surgical): IDH1/2-mutant or IDH-wildtype (WT) low-grade glioma candidate for observation
3. No contraindications to MRI;
4. eGFR \> 30 ml/min;
5. No prior chemotherapy or radiation therapy;
6. No need for upfront treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy)
7. Followed at either Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre or at St Michael's Hospital

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Need for upfront post-surgical treatment with either chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy
2. Pregnancy

Where this trial is running

Toronto, Ontario and 1 other locations

• Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (RECRUITING)
• St. Michael's Hospital — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (NOT_YET_RECRUITING)

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Greg J Stanisz, PhD — Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
• Study coordinator: Mary Jane Lim-Fat, MD

Conditions: Low-grade Glioma