Sound waves and drug team up against brain tumors

NCT ID NCT04559685

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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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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.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center

    Phoenix, Arizona, 85013, United States