Using Metabolomic Profiles to Predict How Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer Responds to Total Neoadjuvant Therapy and Its Side Effects

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating metabolomic profiles to predict how patients with locally advanced rectal cancer respond to total neoadjuvant therapy TNT, which includes chemotherapy and radiation before surgery. This study also aims to identify metabolites linked to treatment side effects like radiation proctitis. Metabolomics, which examines small molecules related to biological functions, may help develop precise tools to forecast treatment success and toxicity. The study involves collecting blood, urine, tissue, and fecal samples from participants at different stages before, during, and after chemoradiotherapy. These samples will be analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry LC-MS to identify metabolites associated with treatment response and side effects. Researchers will assess tumor shrinkage and pathological response, as well as radiation proctitis severity using established clinical criteria. Participants will be closely monitored throughout the study, with assessments including metabolomic profiling and clinical evaluations up to six months after radiotherapy or until surgical resection. The primary outcome is the ability of metabolomic profiles to predict complete treatment response. Secondary outcomes include tracking severe treatment-related toxicities. This comprehensive approach aims to improve personalized care for rectal cancer patients by identifying predictive biomarkers.

Metabolomics to Predict Treatment Response and Toxicities in Rectal Cancer