NCT07116486 · M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
A Trial Utilizing 18F-FS PG PET to Guide Therapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
What this study is about
To evaluate the relationship between 18F-FSPG uptake in HCC lesions, ctDNA in blood and clinical response to Y90 radioembolization therapy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by SOC imaging.
View original scientific description
To evaluate the relationship between 18F-FSPG uptake in HCC lesions, ctDNA in blood and clinical response to Y90 radioembolization therapy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by SOC imaging.
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
- Diagnosis of HCC with one or more of the following:
- Liver mass with non-rim arterial phase hyperenhancement (APHE) and one of the following:
- 10-19 mm with ≥ 2 additional major features according to LI-RADS criteria ("washout", enhancing "capsule", and/or threshold growth),
- 10-19 mm with "washout" and visibility at antecedent ultrasound (US) but with no "capsule" or threshold growth,
- 10-19 mm with ≥50% size increase in ≤6 months but with no "washout" or "capsule" or
- ≥20 mm with ≥1 additional major feature according to LI-RADS criteria ("washout", enhancing "capsule", or threshold growth).
- Lesions that meet LI-RADS 4 criteria or
- Lesions that meet LI-RADS 5 criteria or
- Suggestive imaging findings plus Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP) \> 200 mg/dL or
- Tumor confirmed by arteriography or
- Pathologic confirmation of tumor and
- Patients with HCC must be a candidate for Y90 radioembolization monotherapy. and
- Each patient must have completed conventional imaging and staging and CT before initiation of the investigational PET studies.
- Age ≥18 years. Because no dosing or adverse event data are currently available on the use of 18F-FSPG in patients \<18 years of age, children are excluded from this study.
- The effects of 18F-FSPG on the developing human fetus are unknown. For this reason women and men of child-bearing potential must agree to use adequate contraception (hormonal or barrier method of birth control; abstinence) prior to study entry and for the duration of study participation. (Refer to Pregnancy Assessment Policy MD Anderson Institutional Policy # CLN1114). This includes all female patients, between the onset of menses (as early as 8 years of age) and 55 years unless the patient presents with an applicable
Exclusion criteria
- ary factor which may be one of the following:
- Postmenopausal (no menses in greater than or equal to 12 consecutive months).
- History of hysterectomy or bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy.
- Ovarian failure (Follicle Stimulating Hormone and Estradiol in menopausal range, who have received Whole Pelvic Radiation Therapy).
- History of bilateral tubal ligation or another surgical sterilization procedure.
- Approved methods of birth control are as follows: Hormonal contraception (i.e. birth control pills, injection, implant, transdermal patch, vaginal ring), Intrauterine device (IUD), Tubal Ligation or hysterectomy, Subject/Partner post vasectomy, Implantable or injectable contraceptives, and condoms plus spermicide. Not engaging in sexual activity for the total duration of the trial and the drug washout period is an acceptable practice; however periodic abstinence, the rhythm method, and the withdrawal method are not acceptable methods of birth control. Should a woman become pregnant or suspect she is pregnant while she or her partner is participating in this study, she should inform her treating physician immediately.
- Men treated or enrolled on this protocol must also agree to use adequate contraception prior to the study, for the duration of study participation, and 4 months after completion of 18F-FSPG administration.
- Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document Exclusion Criteria:
- Patients under the age of 18 will be excluded from the this study.
- Patients who have HCC but are not candidates for Y90 radioembolization monotherapy.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding patients. Pregnant women are excluded from this study because 18F-FSPG as a radiotracer has a potential teratogenic or abortifacient effect. Because there is an unknown but potential risk for adverse events in nursing infants secondary to administration of the tracer 18F-FSPG to the mother, breastfeeding should be discontinued.
- Patients with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus (fasting blood glucose level \> 200 mg/dL).
- Patients with psychiatric illness/social situations that would limit compliance with study requirements.
- Patients who have not recovered from AEs or had allergic reactions to similar compounds should be excluded.
Where
- Houston, Texas
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 Jun 10, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations