DF1001 for Solid Cancers
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores a new treatment called DF1001, designed to boost the body's immune response against cancer by targeting specific proteins on cancer cells. It focuses on solid tumors linked to a protein called HER2, found in several cancers such as non-small cell lung cancer, breast cancer, and gastric cancer. The trial tests DF1001 alone and in combination with other treatments to determine the best and safest dose. Patients who may be suitable have cancers with HER2 involvement and have experienced disease progression despite previous treatments. As a Phase 1 trial, this research aims to understand how DF1001 works in people, offering patients the opportunity to be among the first to receive this new treatment.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial protocol does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, you cannot be on any concurrent anticancer treatments or certain other therapies, so it's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that DF1001 is generally safe when used alone. In one study, 106 patients took DF1001 by itself, and it was well-tolerated, with no severe side effects reported.
Researchers also assessed the safety of DF1001 when combined with other drugs like nab-paclitaxel or nivolumab. These combinations aim to enhance the immune system's ability to fight cancer. Previous studies on similar drug combinations have shown they are usually safe, though they might cause mild to moderate side effects like tiredness or nausea, which are common in cancer treatments.
The current DF1001 study focuses on determining the right dose and ensuring safety. Although the research remains in its early stages, the treatment's performance so far provides some confidence in its safety.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about DF1001 because it targets HER2, a protein that can contribute to cancer growth, in a novel way. Unlike traditional therapies that might focus broadly on killing cancer cells, DF1001 is designed to activate the body's immune system specifically against tumors with HER2 activation. This targeted approach could potentially lead to more effective treatments with fewer side effects. Additionally, when combined with other drugs like nivolumab or nab-paclitaxel, DF1001 could enhance the immune response and improve outcomes for patients with various types of solid tumors. This unique mechanism and potential for combination therapy make DF1001 a promising candidate in cancer treatment.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective?
Research has shown that DF1001 has promising effects against tumors in patients with certain types of cancer that exhibit varying levels of the protein HER2. Earlier studies found DF1001 to be generally safe, with patients experiencing encouraging reductions in tumor size. In this trial, some participants will receive DF1001 combined with Nab-paclitaxel, a cancer drug with fewer side effects, which has demonstrated positive results in reducing tumors. Others will receive DF1001 with Nivolumab, a drug that aids the immune system in fighting cancer, which was also well-tolerated and is under study for its potential benefits. These findings suggest that DF1001, either alone or in combination with other treatments, could be an effective option for some HER2-positive cancers.12456
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults with various advanced solid tumors, especially those expressing HER2. Participants must have measurable disease and adequate organ function, and women of childbearing age must use effective contraception. Excluded are individuals with recent other cancers, CNS metastases, severe heart conditions, uncontrolled infections or allergies to monoclonal antibodies.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Dose Escalation
Participants receive increasing doses of DF1001 to determine the maximum tolerated dose
Dose Expansion
Participants receive the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) of DF1001, either as monotherapy or in combination with other drugs
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- DF1001
- Nab paclitaxel
- Nivolumab
DF1001 is already approved in United States for the following indications:
- Esophageal cancer (Orphan Drug Designation)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Dragonfly Therapeutics
Lead Sponsor