NCT05978557 · UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
Brain Slice Explants to Predict Drug Response in Brain Tumors
What this study is about
This biospecimen collection study will evaluate the feasibility of engrafting and testing resected Central nervous system (CNS) tumors tumor tissue ex vivo to estimate drug response, in pediatric and adult subjects. CNS tumors display remarkable heterogeneity and unfortunately there are no reliable precision oncology platforms that can identify the most effective therapy for each patient.
View original scientific description
This biospecimen collection study will evaluate the feasibility of engrafting and testing resected Central nervous system (CNS) tumors tumor tissue ex vivo to estimate drug response, in pediatric and adult subjects. CNS tumors display remarkable heterogeneity and unfortunately there are no reliable precision oncology platforms that can identify the most effective therapy for each patient. Recent work has demonstrated the success of functional precision oncology platforms using patient-derived explant (PDE) at predicting drug response in various cancers. Since PDEs maintain important aspects of tumor heterogeneity they may prove effective as functional models for CNS tumors. The purpose of this study is to explore the feasibility of using a novel PDE platform to generate drug sensitivity scores from patients with central nervous system tumors in Pediatric and adult subjects having low- or high-grade CNS tumors resected. The secondary objective is to estimate the proportion of successfully scaled PDEs generated per given tumor size.
Interventions
OTHER
Biospecimen collection
Biospecimen will be collected during surgery.
Primary outcome measures
Proportion of specimens yielding scores
Time frame: Up to 28 days
The proportion of evaluable specimens yielding patient-derived explant (PDE) drug sensitivity scores. Specimens will be collected during surgery for tumor resection. Excised specimens will be processed to generate PDE-based functional drug screening models. A panel of therapeutics will be chosen for each specimen according to pre-set criteria determined.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- 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.
- A diagnosis of a tumor residing in the central nervous system with surgery plan to have surgical resection.
- The subject is willing and able to comply with study procedures based on the judgment of the investigator or protocol designer.
Exclusion criteria
- 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.
- Incarcerated individuals.
Where
- Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 29, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations