A new PET scan tracks brain tumors by their appetite for tryptophan

NCT ID NCT07735819

Not yet recruiting Diagnosis Sponsor: Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 30, 2026 · Last updated Jul 31, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial is testing whether a special PET/CT scan that uses a radioactive form of tryptophan can provide better information about gliomas (a type of brain tumor) than standard MRI. The study has three parts: seeing if the scan can better define the tumor for radiation planning, distinguishing tumor regrowth from radiation damage, and measuring whether a drug (minocycline) can block a metabolic pathway in low-grade tumors. Adults with newly diagnosed or treated gliomas are eligible.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: a radioactive tracer called [18F]FETrp used in PET/CT scans, and in one arm the drug minocycline is also given
What this could lead to: If successful, this imaging method could help doctors more accurately target radiation therapy and distinguish tumor growth from treatment-related changes, potentially improving outcomes for people with brain tumors.
What could go wrong: This is a relatively small, early-phase trial, so the imaging technique may not prove superior to MRI. The drug minocycline may cause side effects and may not effectively block the pathway as hoped.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

glioblastoma low grade glioma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

GLIOBLASTOMA LOW GRADE GLIOMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Karmanos Cancer Institute

Detroit, Michigan, 48201, United States

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