NCT05864534 · Northwestern University
Phase 2a Immune Modulation With Ultrasound for Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma
What this study is about
Brain tumor treatment is hampered by the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This barrier prevents drugs carried in the bloodstream from getting into the brain. If the BBB can be opened, making it temporarily more permeable, drugs may able to better reach the brain tumor.
View original scientific description
Brain tumor treatment is hampered by the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This barrier prevents drugs carried in the bloodstream from getting into the brain. If the BBB can be opened, making it temporarily more permeable, drugs may able to better reach the brain tumor. In this trial we will implant a novel device with 9 ultrasound emitters, allowing temporary and reversible opening of the BBB to maximize brain penetration of drugs that modulate the immune system. The device will be implanted after radiation is completed. Immune modulating drugs will be given every 3 weeks in conjunction with activation of the device to open the BBB. The objectives of this trial are to establish whether it is safe and feasible to administer immune modulating drugs in this manner, and identify whether the treatment is effective in treating glioblastoma.
Interventions
DRUG
Balstilimab
Balstilimab 450 mg IV over 30 minutes every 3 weeks
DRUG
Botensilimab
Botensilimab1mg/kg mg IV over 30 minutes every 6 weeks
DRUG
Liposomal Doxorubicin
Liposomal Doxorubicin 30 mg IV over 30 minutes every 3 weeks
DEVICE
Sonocloud-9 (SC-9)
Device activation of 9 ultrasound emitters during IV injection of microbubbles every 3 weeks
Primary outcome measures
Unacceptable toxicity rate
Time frame: 42 days
Unacceptable toxicity rate in cycle 1 of \< 33%
Landmark survival analyses
Time frame: 18 months
Overall survival and progression-free survival at 12 and 18 months, as well as median progression-free and overall survival.
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
- Have newly diagnosed pathologically proven glioblastoma, isocitric dehydrogenase-1/2 wild-type
- Tumor with methyl guanine methyl transferase (MGMT) gene promoter unmethylated
- Available paraffin embedded tumor tissue for the study
- Have completed standard radiotherapy with or without temozolomide
- 18 years of age or older
- Able to undergo contrast-enhanced MRI
- Have an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group/World Health Organization performance status ≤ 2
- Size and location of the residual tumor and/or resection cavity must allow to be able to be covered by the sonication field
- Have not received any prior treatment with immunotherapeutic agents treatments for glioblastoma or other indications
- Have the ability to understand and willingness to sign a written informed consent prior to registration on study.
- Be willing and able to comply with the protocol.
- Have adequate organ and bone marrow function
- Agree to use adequate contraception if appropriate
Exclusion criteria
- Patients will be ineligible if they have:
- Multifocal tumor (unless all localized in a 50-mm diameter area accessible to ultrasound field) or tumor located in the posterior fossa.
- Uncontrolled epilepsy.
- Received other investigational agents within 2 weeks of registration
- Received prior therapy with or have history of allergic reactions attributed to compounds of similar chemical or biologic composition to agents used in this study.
- Contraindication to checkpoint inhibitor therapy (e.g., history of autoimmune disease)
- Uncontrolled illness
- History of active malignancy other than the brain tumor within 12 months prior to registration.
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
Collaborators
Agenus Inc., CarThera
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 May 13, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations