NCT05975593 · Washington University School of Medicine
MicroEnvironment Tumor Effects of Radiotherapy - Comprehensive Radiobiology Assessment TRial
(METEOR-CRATR)
What this study is about
This study is a dynamically adjustable forward-looking longitudinal study designed to capture biospecimen (biopsy, blood, surgical) and multimodal treatment-related data (imaging, dosimetry, clinical) before, during, and after treatment with definitive-intent chemoradiotherapy for patients with locally advanced cervical and pancreatic cancer.
View original scientific description
This study is a dynamically adjustable prospective longitudinal study designed to capture biospecimen (biopsy, blood, surgical) and multimodal treatment-related data (imaging, dosimetry, clinical) before, during, and after treatment with definitive-intent chemoradiotherapy for patients with locally advanced cervical and pancreatic cancer.
Interventions
OTHER
Tumor collection via biopsy
Cervical cancer: Pre-radiation therapy, 1 week after beginning radiation therapy, 3 weeks after beginning radiation therapy, and recurrence. Pancreatic cancer: pre-stereotactic body radiotherapy, 12 weeks after completion of radiotherapy, and recurrence.
OTHER
Blood collection
Cervical cancer: pre-radiation therapy, 1 week after beginning radiation therapy, 3 weeks after beginning radiation therapy, 6 weeks after completing radiation therapy, 12 weeks after completing radiation therapy, and recurrence. Pancreatic cancer: pre-stereotactic body radiotherapy, 6 weeks after completion of radiotherapy, 12 weeks after completion of radiotherapy, surgery (if applicable), and recurrence
DEVICE
Diffusion basis spectrum imaging (DBSI) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Cervical cancer: initial staging, 12 weeks after completing radiation therapy, and recurrence. Pancreatic cancer: initial staging, stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) simulation, 12 weeks after completing radiation therapy, and recurrence. The imaging will be performed when possible.
Primary outcome measures
Changes in tumor microenvironment
Time frame: From start of follow-up through completion of follow-up (estimated to be 5 years)
Generalized linear mixed effects models will be first used to capture the changes in the longitudinal values of a single assay output over time for a given biospecimen. Random effects will be used to describe the correlation of repeated measures on the same subject over time.
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
- Confirmation of intent to receive radiotherapy for one of the following diagnoses:
- Cervical cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- ECOG performance status ≤ 2
- At least 18 years old
- Able to understand and willing to sign an IRB-approved written informed consent document
Exclusion criteria
- Any issue (medical, anatomic, other) that might preclude safe acquisition of biospecimens at the discretion of the treating physician
Where
- St Louis, Missouri
Collaborators
National Cancer Institute (NCI), The Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital
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 Nov 12, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations