NCT05086497 · Abramson Cancer Center at Penn Medicine
WBSI Guided Personalized Delivery of TTFields
What this study is about
This research study is for Glioblastoma (GBM) patients who will be beginning Optune as part of their clinical care, which is a novel treatment that utilizes - tumor treating fields (TTFields), (aka, electrical therapy), which has shown to improve how long patients live in large multi-center trials.
View original scientific description
This research study is for Glioblastoma (GBM) patients who will be beginning Optune as part of their clinical care, which is a novel treatment that utilizes - tumor treating fields (TTFields), (aka, electrical therapy), which has shown to improve overall survival in large multi-center trials. As a part of this study, participants will either receive Optune with "standard array mapping" (based on regular contrast enhanced MRI) or an "alternative (more precise) array mapping" based on sophisticated state of the art MRI techniques including "whole brain spectroscopy". Whole brain MRI spectroscopy provides additional metabolic information to map out the full extent of tumor spreading within the brain (far beyond from what is seen on regular MRI), by identifying certain metabolites that are present in cancer cells versus healthy tissue. This study is being performed to show whether alternative array mapping improves treatment outcomes, as opposed to the standard array mapping, by maximizing delivery of TTFields dose, thereby achieving more effective tumor cell killing, decreasing the rate of local recurrence, and improving the overall survival as well as quality of life measures.
Interventions
DIAGNOSTIC_TEST
Whole Brain Spectroscopy Imaging Array Mapping Layout
All study participants will receive whole brain spectroscopy imaging as a part of MRI study time points. Participants assigned to the advanced MR imaging array mapping layout study arm will receive tumor treating fields mapping from Optune that is created from the spectroscopy sequences or advanced MR imaging. Participants assigned to the conventional array mapping layout will still receive advanced imaging sequences or spectroscopy imaging at all time points.
Primary outcome measures
Time to Progression
Time frame: 2 month intervals
Using whole brain spectroscopy imaging, diffusion and perfusion MR imaging, a combined multiparametric approach will be utilized to compare treatment response from patients enrolled in two study arms.
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
- Adult population ≥ 22 years
- Histologically confirmed diagnosis of GBM or molecular GBM according to c-IMPACT NOW criteria
- Have undergone maximal safe surgical resection followed by either standard full course radiation of 6000 cGy in 6 weeks or a hypofractionated course of 4000 cGy in 3 weeks
- 3 Harboring any genotype profiles (MGMT promoter methylation or unmethylation and/or isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutant or IDH wild-type)
- Possessing adequate hematological, hepatic and renal functions
- Willingness to receive TTFields
Exclusion criteria
- Presence of infra-tentorial GBM
- Significant co-morbidities at baseline which would prevent maintenance TMZ treatment
- Active implanted medical device, a skull defect (such as missing bone with no replacement) or bullet fragments. Examples of active electronic devices include deep brain stimulators, spinal cord stimulators, vagus nerve stimulators,pacemakers, defibrillators and programmable shunts. , other implanted electronic devices in the brain.
- Sensitivity to conductive hydrogels like the gel used on electrocardiogram (ECG) stickers or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) electrodes.
- Presence of significant hemorrhage in and around the tumor bed that may potentially degrade the image quality.
Where
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Collaborators
NovoCure Ltd., National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Cancer Institute (NCI)
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 Mar 11, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations