FAPI PET/MRI for Prostate Cancer

This clinical trial examines how a new drug, FAPI (Gallium 68-labeled fibroblast activation protein inhibitor), aids in diagnosing and tracking prostate cancer. Researchers aim to observe FAPI's interaction with cancer cells during scans, potentially enhancing doctors' understanding and monitoring of the disease. Individuals with a known diagnosis of prostate cancer who have recently undergone or are scheduled for a PSMA PET scan might be suitable candidates. Participants will undergo two PET/MRI scans, each lasting up to 2.5 hours. As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, allowing participants to contribute to advancements in prostate cancer diagnosis.

The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you require mild, oral anxiolytics (medications that reduce anxiety) for the MRI, you can still participate as long as you have your own prescription and follow the consent process before taking them.

Research has shown that FAPI PET imaging, which uses a special protein blocker, is generally safe. Studies have found that a tracer called Gallium 68-labeled FAPI is both safe and effective for cancer imaging. Tested across various cancer types, patients have tolerated it well. No major safety issues emerged in these studies, suggesting that FAPI PET scans are likely well-tolerated by clinical trial participants.¹²³⁴⁵

Unlike the standard treatments for prostate cancer, which often include surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy, FAPI (Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor) offers a novel approach by using a radiotracer during PET imaging. Researchers are excited about FAPI because it targets fibroblast activation protein, which is frequently overexpressed in cancerous tissues. This targeted approach may improve imaging accuracy, helping doctors better identify and treat cancerous areas. Additionally, FAPI could potentially enhance the precision of non-invasive diagnostics, offering a new tool in the fight against prostate cancer.

Research has shown that a new type of scan called FAPI PET holds promise for diagnosing prostate cancer. In this trial, participants will undergo FAPI PET scans, which have proven more accurate than the commonly used FDG PET scans for this purpose. This suggests that FAPI scans might be better at detecting cancer. FAPI works by attaching to a protein found in many cancer cells, making tumors easier to see. Early results indicate this could help doctors track and diagnose prostate cancer more effectively.¹⁶⁷⁸⁹