NCT02997709 · University of Miami
Collection and Measurement of Biomarkers in Prostate Cancer Radiotherapy Patients
(COMBINE)
What this study is about
The purpose of this research study is to learn about: 1) How standard radiation treatment to prostate (primary radiotherapy) or the pelvis after prostatectomy (postoperative radiotherapy) may cause changes in MRI and PET imaging traits that might be used in the future to predict response.
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The purpose of this research study is to learn about: 1) How standard radiation treatment to prostate (primary radiotherapy) or the pelvis after prostatectomy (postoperative radiotherapy) may cause changes in MRI and PET imaging traits that might be used in the future to predict response. 2) Comparison of such MRI and PET imaging traits with the number of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) present in the blood prior to treatment and the changes in these counts after treatment. 3) How MRI and PET imaging characteristics and changes are related to the expression of genes in the cancer tissue obtained before treatment from prostate biopsy or a prior prostatectomy before treatment. 4) How the response of prostate cancer treatment relates to the imaging and CTC changes.
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
- Pathologic confirmation of prostate cancer.
- Any T-stage.
- By imaging or clinical criteria, any patient with disease staging of N0/N1 and M0/M1.
- Patients with metastatic disease are encouraged to participate.
- Any Gleason Score will be eligible.
- Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is at the discretion of the treating physician, but must be declared as none, short-term, long-term, or extended prior to enrollment. The length is calculated from the LHRH (agonist injection). If ADT is planned (based on treating physician preference), the following restrictions apply:
- Short term ADT is defined as ≤ 7 months;
- Long term ADT is defined as \> 7 months and ≤ 36 months;
- Extended ADT is defined as \>36 months (e.g., M1 patients).
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) ≤100 ng/mL within (+/-) 4 months of signing of consent. If PSA was above 100 and drops to \<100 with antibiotics, this is acceptable for enrollment.
- No previous pelvic radiotherapy.
- The ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document
- Zubrod performance status ≤ 2 (Karnofsky or ECOG performance status may be used to estimate Zubrod):
- Age ≥ 30 at signing of consent.
- Subjects must be planned to receive radiation therapy or to undergo prostatectomy.
- Subjects treated primarily with RT are recommended to have had an MUFgBx prior to radiation treatment.
Where
- Miami, Florida
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 Mar 4, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations