NCT07775534 · City of Hope Medical Center
Tear Fluid for the Detection of Tumor-associated Extracellular Vesicles in Glioblastoma Patients
What this study is about
This clinical trial tests the impact of tear fluid in detecting tumor-associated extracellular vesicles (TEVs) in patients with glioblastoma. Brain tumors release small particles, called TEVs, that may provide information about the tumor, including how it responds to treatment. These particles can be found in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.
View original scientific description
This clinical trial tests the impact of tear fluid in detecting tumor-associated extracellular vesicles (TEVs) in patients with glioblastoma. Brain tumors release small particles, called TEVs, that may provide information about the tumor, including how it responds to treatment. These particles can be found in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. Collecting CSF can be difficult and expensive, especially if samples are needed frequently to track these particles over time. Tear fluid is easier to collect than spinal fluid. If tears are found to contain similar tumor-related particles, changes in the tumor may be tracked by studying the particles found in tear fluid.
Interventions
PROCEDURE
Biospecimen Collection
Undergo collection of tears
PROCEDURE
Biospecimen Collection
Undergo collection of blood and standard of care CSF samples
OTHER
Electronic Health Record Review
Ancillary studies
OTHER
Questionnaire Administration
Ancillary studies
Primary outcome measures
Proportion of samples containing at least 2 uL of tear (feasibility)
Time frame: Up to 2 years
An exact two-sided 95% confidence interval will be provided as a measure of precision. P-values and confidence intervals will be interpreted descriptively.
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
- Adults (age ≥ 18)
- Male and female
- All racial and ethnic groups
- Pathologically-proven diagnosis of GBM or healthy volunteers
- For GBM patients, presence of a previously placed Rickham reservoir or shunt
- Able to provide informed consent (or via legal representative)
- Willing to undergo Schirmer strip procedure
Exclusion criteria
- Active ocular infection or inflammation
- Recent ocular surgery (within 3 months)
- Chronic dry eyes
- Known allergy or hypersensitivity to topical anesthetics
- Cognitive impairment
- Any condition that, in the opinion of the investigator, would interfere with the participant's ability to comply with study procedures or place the participant at undue risk
Where
- Duarte, California
Collaborators
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 Oct 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations