FLASH-Based Radioimmunotherapy in Canine Glioma

    September 29, 2026

    The purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of FLASH proton radiation therapy (FLASH-RT), administered either alone or in combination with Gilvetmab, as a treatment for canine brain tumors (gliomas), with the goal of providing effective tumor control while reducing treatment-related side effects. FLASH-RT, combined with Gilvetmab, is considered experimental.

    This trial offers three doses of FLASH-RT targeted for canine glioma with randomization to also receive three infusions of Gilvetmab following the RT protocol.

    Dog Inclusion Criteria:
    Histopathologic confirmation of glioma by a board-certified veterinary pathologist or diagnostic MRI indicating a supratentorial lesion consistent with glioma.
    No major underlying health conditions that would make patient high risk to undergo general anesthesia.
    Tumor size and presentation amendable to FLASH RT equipment.
    Has not received systemic chemotherapy or immunotherapy in the past 3 weeks.
    Has never received Gilvetmab before.

    Incentives:
    The initial diagnostic tests (screening) to confirm eligibility, including initial examination fee, routine blood collection (CBC, chemistry), chest +/- abdominal imaging (CT vs radiographs and ultrasound), anesthesia and IV catheter placement, +/- brain MRI, and CSF tap to determine your dog’s eligibility is your financial responsibility.

    All study-related procedures, including the three FLASH-RT treatments, physical examinations, laboratory tests (CBC, chemistry panel, urinalysis), sedation, anesthesia, CSF taps, Gilvetmab infusions and CT/MRIs, will be covered by the study sponsor once enrolled. Study enrollment requires 12 follow up visits over the course of 11 months. All visits are conducted at Ryan Veterinary Hospital in Philadelphia, PA.

    Contact:
    If interested in enrolling your dog in this study, or would like to learn more, contact the VCIC at 215-573-0302 or email vcic@vet.upenn.edu for more information.