Image

Characterization of Biophysical Stromal Properties in Human Cancer: Towards Personalized Computational Oncology

Characterization of Biophysical Stromal Properties in Human Cancer: Towards Personalized Computational Oncology

Recruiting
18 years and older
All
Phase N/A

Powered by AI

Overview

Drug delivery in solid tumors, whether administered systemically or locoregionally, is hindered by an elevated interstitial fluid pressure (IFP). Stromal targeting therapies are in active development, aiming to enhance drug transport after systemic or locoregional delivery. To date, no clinical methods are available to quantify tumor biophysical properties (including IFP). The investigators aim to use a combination of dynamic contrast enhanced MRI and computational fluid modeling (CFD) to measure stromal IFP in patients with pancreatic cancer and in patients with ovarian or colonic peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC). Computational data will be correlated with therapy response, platinum drug penetration, and invasively measured biophysical parameters after intravenous (pancreas) or intraperitoneal (ovarian/colonic PC) administration of a platinum compound. This would be the first in depth clinical study addressing this important topic, and could pave the way to developing personalized computational based treatment approaches aimed at targeting the biophysical environment of the tumor stroma in order to enhance cancer drug delivery.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Patients with non-cystic adenocarcinoma the pancreas requiring neoadjuvant chemotherapy (any) because of borderline resectability
  • Patients with stage IIIC or IVA ovarian cancer planned for debulking and HIPEC.
  • Patients with stage IIIC or IVA colorectal cancer planned for debulking and HIPEC

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Age <18 years
  • Pregnancy, or suspected inadequate contraception during study period
  • Clinically detectable ascites
  • Intestinal or urinary tract obstruction
  • Hepatic and/or extra-abdominal metastatic disease
  • Impaired renal function (serum creatinine > 1.5mg/dl or calculated GFR (CKD-EPI) < 60mL/min/1.73 m²)
  • Impaired liver function (serum total bilirubin > 1.5 mg/dl, except for known Gilbert's disease)
  • Platelet count < 100.000/µl
  • Hemoglobin < 9g/dl
  • Neutrophil granulocytes < 1.500/ml
  • Irresectable or metastatic disease
  • Contra-indication for contrast enhanced MRI
    • Known allergy or intolerance to Gadolinium based contrast agents
    • Severe claustrophobia
    • Patients with metallic foreign bodies (pacemaker, neurostimulator, pedicle screw, cerebral aneurysm clips…) that may dislodge in a strong magnetic field
  • Frail and medically unfit patients (Karnofsky index < 60% and WHO Performance score 3

    or 4)

  • Estimated life expectancy < 12 months
  • In case of ovarian/colon cancer: no visible peritoneal metastasis on CT scan
  • Acute or chronic pancreatitis

Study details
    Carcinomatosis
    Peritoneal
    Pancreas Cancer
    Ovarian Cancer
    Colon Cancer

NCT04512209

University Hospital, Ghent

14 October 2025

Step 1 Get in touch with the nearest study center
We have submitted the contact information you provided to the research team at {{SITE_NAME}}. A copy of the message has been sent to your email for your records.
Would you like to be notified about other trials? Sign up for Patient Notification Services.
Sign up

Send a message

Enter your contact details to connect with study team

Investigator Avatar

Primary Contact

  Other languages supported:

First name*
Last name*
Email*
Phone number*
Other language

FAQs

Learn more about clinical trials

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a study designed to test specific interventions or treatments' effectiveness and safety, paving the way for new, innovative healthcare solutions.

Why should I take part in a clinical trial?

Participating in a clinical trial provides early access to potentially effective treatments and directly contributes to the healthcare advancements that benefit us all.

How long does a clinical trial take place?

The duration of clinical trials varies. Some trials last weeks, some years, depending on the phase and intention of the trial.

Do I get compensated for taking part in clinical trials?

Compensation varies per trial. Some offer payment or reimbursement for time and travel, while others may not.

How safe are clinical trials?

Clinical trials follow strict ethical guidelines and protocols to safeguard participants' health. They are closely monitored and safety reviewed regularly.
Add a private note
  • abc Select a piece of text.
  • Add notes visible only to you.
  • Send it to people through a passcode protected link.