Tebentafusp for Advanced Melanoma
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new treatment called tebentafusp for individuals with advanced non-ocular melanoma, a serious type of skin cancer. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of tebentafusp both alone and in combination with pembrolizumab (an immunotherapy drug), compared to other doctor-selected treatments. It seeks participants with non-ocular melanoma that cannot be surgically removed and who have tested positive for a specific cell marker, HLA-A*02:01. As a Phase 3 trial, this study represents the final step before FDA approval, providing participants an opportunity to access potentially groundbreaking treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify if you must stop taking your current medications, but it mentions that you should not have received certain cancer therapies or immunosuppressive drugs within specific time frames before starting the trial. It's best to discuss your current medications with the trial team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that tebentafusp holds promise for treating melanoma, a type of skin cancer. In previous studies, patients who received tebentafusp lived longer. The treatment is usually well-tolerated, though some patients developed rashes, which often improved or resolved over time.
When combined with pembrolizumab, another medication, similar safety results have been observed. Both treatments are being tested to ensure they are safe and effective. As this study is in a later stage, researchers have gathered more information about the treatment's safety, providing more evidence that it is generally safe for people. However, like any treatment, side effects may occur, so discussing any concerns with a healthcare provider is important.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Tebentafusp is unique because it targets melanoma cells in a novel way, using a mechanism called a T-cell receptor (TCR) fusion protein. This approach is different from the standard treatments like immune checkpoint inhibitors or targeted therapies, as tebentafusp specifically binds to a protein present on the surface of melanoma cells and activates T-cells to attack them. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it offers a new strategy to stimulate the immune system against melanoma, potentially improving outcomes for patients with advanced stages of the disease. Additionally, one of the treatment arms combines tebentafusp with pembrolizumab, which could enhance the immune response even further.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for advanced melanoma?
Research has shown that tebentafusp yields promising results for treating advanced melanoma. In studies with patients who have metastatic uveal melanoma, tebentafusp significantly improved survival rates compared to standard treatments. This drug is a bispecific ImmTAC, targeting certain proteins to help the immune system identify and destroy cancer cells. Participants in this trial may receive tebentafusp alone or combined with pembrolizumab, a drug that enhances the immune system's ability to fight cancer. Earlier research suggests that both approaches may offer a survival benefit for treating advanced melanoma. Additionally, some participants will receive the investigator's choice of therapy, providing a comprehensive evaluation of treatment options.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Mohammed Dar, MD
Principal Investigator
Immunocore Ltd
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with advanced non-ocular melanoma who are HLA-A*02:01-positive, have a good performance status (able to carry out daily activities), and can provide a tumor tissue sample. They must not be pregnant or breastfeeding, have no history of other cancers or severe psychiatric disorders, and cannot currently be in another clinical study.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive tebentafusp as monotherapy or in combination with pembrolizumab, or investigator's choice of therapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Long-term follow-up
Participants are monitored for overall survival and adverse events
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Investigators Choice
- Pembrolizumab
- Tebentafusp
Tebentafusp is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Unresectable or metastatic uveal melanoma in HLA-A*02:01-positive adults
- Unresectable or metastatic uveal melanoma in HLA-A*02:01-positive adults
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Immunocore Ltd
Lead Sponsor