NCT03830151 · M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Hyperpolarized Carbon C 13 Pyruvate in Diagnosing Glioma in Patients With Brain Tumors
What this study is about
This trial studies how an imaging agent, hyperpolarized carbon C 13 pyruvate, works in diagnosing glioma in patients with brain tumors. Giving hyperpolarized carbon C 13 pyruvate before an advanced imaging technique called a magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) scan may help researchers better diagnose glioma in patients with brain tumors.
View original scientific description
This trial studies how an imaging agent, hyperpolarized carbon C 13 pyruvate, works in diagnosing glioma in patients with brain tumors. Giving hyperpolarized carbon C 13 pyruvate before an advanced imaging technique called a magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) scan may help researchers better diagnose glioma in patients with brain tumors.
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
- Written informed consent will be obtained from each participants including healthy volunteers.
- Healthy volunteers will not have contra-indications to MR scanning, but will otherwise not be subject to other selection criteria.
- All patients will be enrolled in study # 2011-0370, the Stereotactic RadPath trial
- Patient is \>18 years old, agrees to participate in the clinical study and to complete all required visits and evaluations. The pediatric population has a different disease profile from the glioma patients we hope to recruit. To reduce heterogeneity in the patient population we will not consider patients younger than 18 for this study.
- Patient is a candidate for cerebral tumor resection with lesion suspected to be or previously biopsy proven to be a primary brain tumor.
- Patient is able to understand and give consent to participation in the study.
- Patient agrees to undergo, prior to the procedure, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI, within 14 days and preferably with 3 days of the planned procedure) with perfusion, diffusion and spectroscopic imaging.
- Patient has a GFR \> 60. In patients with moderate renal failure (GFR 30-60), an alternate injection with 2 times half-dose multihance (gadobenate dimeglumine) or gadovist (gadobutrol) will be considered, if a contrast exam is deemed clinically necessary.
- Specifically for this Study: Patient is willing to give signed informed consent for C13-Pyruvate MR Spectroscopy.
Exclusion criteria
- Healthy volunteers will be screened using same process but will otherwise not be subject to other selection criteria.
- The patient is found to have unfavorable anatomy to indicate that stereotactic biopsy could not be safely performed.
- Pacemakers, electronic stimulation, metallic foreign bodies and devices and/or other conditions that are not MR safe, which include but are not limited to: • electronically, magnetically, and mechanically activated implants • ferromagnetic or electronically operated active devices like automatic cardioverter defibrillators and cardiac pacemakers • metallic splinters in the eye • ferromagnetic hemostatic clips in the central nervous system (CNS) or body • cochlear implants • other pacemakers, e.g., for the carotid sinus • insulin pumps and nerve stimulators • non-MR safe lead wires • prosthetic heart valves (if dehiscence is suspected) • non-ferromagnetic stapedial implants • pregnancy • claustrophobia that does not readily respond to oral medication
- Prior brain tumor treatment, including surgical resection, radiation therapy or chemotherapy for a primary brain neoplasm. Previous biopsy will not disqualify the patient from participation. Remote history (\> 6month) of non-CNS malignancy in remission, without evidence of current/ prior brain metastasis, will also not disqualify patient from participating.
- History of cardiac arrhythmia
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 Jan 13, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations