Durvalumab + Olaparib with Radiation for Pancreatic Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores a new treatment for pancreatic cancer that has spread to nearby areas and cannot be surgically removed. The study combines a targeted therapy called olaparib, which prevents cancer cells from repairing their damaged DNA, with an immunotherapy drug called durvalumab (also known as Imfinzi) that enhances the immune system's ability to attack cancer, and radiation therapy to shrink tumors. This combination aims to control the cancer and improve the body's response to it. Individuals with pancreatic cancer that has not responded to prior chemotherapy but has not worsened may be suitable candidates for this trial. As a Phase 1 trial, the research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants the opportunity to be among the first to receive this new combination therapy.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires a washout period (time without taking certain medications) of at least 2 weeks from first-line chemotherapy before starting the trial. Additionally, if you are taking medications that are inhibitors or inducers of CYP3A4/5, you will need to stop them 3 to 5 weeks before starting olaparib, depending on the specific medication.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this treatment is likely to be safe for humans?
Research is examining the safety of combining durvalumab, olaparib, and radiation therapy for pancreatic cancer treatment. Previous studies have assessed how well patients tolerate these treatments together. While detailed safety data from those studies is not provided here, durvalumab and olaparib have been studied both alone and with other treatments.
Durvalumab is an immunotherapy that helps the immune system fight cancer cells. Olaparib is a targeted therapy that prevents cancer cells from repairing themselves. Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
In earlier research, most patients tolerated these treatments well, though some experienced side effects. Common side effects include fatigue, nausea, and low blood cell counts. Radiation can also cause skin irritation and fatigue. Although specific data on this combination is limited, the study is in an early phase, focusing on safety and determining optimal dose levels.
As a phase I trial, the primary goal is to assess the safety of these treatments when used together. Being in the early stages means much remains to be learned, highlighting the trial's importance.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Unlike the standard treatments for pancreatic cancer, which typically include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, this new approach combines durvalumab, olaparib, and radiation therapy in a unique way. Durvalumab is an immune checkpoint inhibitor that helps the immune system better recognize and attack cancer cells. Olaparib is a PARP inhibitor that targets cancer cell DNA repair mechanisms, making them more vulnerable to damage. Researchers are excited about this combination because it not only aims to directly attack the cancer but also boosts the body's own immune response, potentially leading to more effective and lasting results.
What evidence suggests that this combination treatment could be effective for pancreatic cancer?
Research has shown that combining olaparib, durvalumab, and radiation therapy may help manage pancreatic cancer. In this trial, participants will receive this combination treatment. Olaparib prevents cancer cells from repairing their damaged DNA, leading to their death. Durvalumab, a type of immunotherapy, boosts the body's immune system to attack cancer cells. Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Studies have found that using these treatments together can strengthen the body's fight against cancer and help control tumor growth. This combination is being studied for its potential to effectively treat pancreatic cancer that cannot be removed with surgery.34678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Vaibhav Sahai
Principal Investigator
University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center EDDOP
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults with locally advanced, unresectable pancreatic cancer who've had at least 16 weeks of first-line chemotherapy without progression. They must be in good physical condition (ECOG <=1), have adequate organ function, and not be pregnant. HIV or hepatitis patients may join if they meet specific criteria. Participants need to agree to use contraception and provide tissue from a previous biopsy if available.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive olaparib orally twice daily and durvalumab intravenously, with radiation therapy starting in cycle 2. Cycles repeat every 28 days for up to 2 years.
Radiation
Radiation therapy is administered daily on weekdays for 3 weeks starting in cycle 2.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment completion, with follow-up at 90 days and every 12 weeks thereafter.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Durvalumab
- Olaparib
- Radiation Therapy
Durvalumab is already approved in European Union, United States, Japan for the following indications:
- Locally advanced, unresectable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
- Extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC)
- Limited-stage small cell lung cancer (LS-SCLC)
- Locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma
- Not specified in provided sources
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Lead Sponsor