Sound waves and drug team up against brain tumors

NCT ID NCT04559685

Terminated Disease control Sponsor: Nader Sanai Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This early-phase trial tested a combination of a drug called aminolevulinic acid (ALA) and focused ultrasound to treat recurrent high-grade glioma, an aggressive brain cancer. The study aimed to see if this sonodynamic therapy could safely damage tumor cells. Only 10 participants were enrolled before the study was terminated, so the findings are limited.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: aminolevulinic acid (ALA) combined with MR-guided focused ultrasound
What this could lead to: If successful, this approach could point toward a new way to treat recurrent brain tumors without surgery.
What could go wrong: This was a very early, small study (only 10 participants planned) that was terminated early, so results are limited. The treatment may not work or could have side effects.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

glioma malignant glioma

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

HIGH GRADE GLIOMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center

Phoenix, Arizona, 85013, United States

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