Auranofin + Sirolimus for Ovarian Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores the effectiveness of combining auranofin and sirolimus in treating ovarian cancer. These drugs aim to suppress the immune response, potentially boosting blood cell counts. The trial seeks participants with ovarian, Fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer that cannot be cured. Participants should have a diagnosis impacting their daily lives and be willing to provide tissue samples for study. As a Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications to join the trial?
The trial does not clearly state if you need to stop all current medications, but you cannot use St. John's wort within 7 days before joining, and you must be able to stop using strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. If you have a history of high triglycerides or cholesterol and are on medication for it, you may not be eligible.
Is there any evidence suggesting that auranofin and sirolimus are likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that auranofin and sirolimus have been tested together in patients with ovarian cancer. In these studies, most patients tolerated the combination well, but it did not significantly benefit some with recurring ovarian cancer.
While these drugs are being tested for ovarian cancer, they also treat other conditions. For instance, auranofin is already approved for rheumatoid arthritis, indicating its safety for that condition, though its effects may differ when used for cancer.
For those considering joining a trial with these drugs, safety remains a top priority. Trials monitor for serious side effects and ensure any risks are understood and managed. Discussing concerns with the study team can help in making an informed decision.12345Why are researchers excited about this study treatment for ovarian cancer?
Researchers are excited about the combination of auranofin and sirolimus for ovarian cancer because it targets the disease in a unique way. Auranofin, traditionally used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, works by inhibiting a specific enzyme called thioredoxin reductase, which cancer cells rely on for survival. Sirolimus, on the other hand, blocks a pathway that cancer cells use to grow and divide. This dual approach could potentially overcome resistance seen with current standard chemotherapy options, offering a new hope for patients with ovarian cancer.
What evidence suggests that auranofin and sirolimus might be an effective treatment for ovarian cancer?
Research has shown that the combination of auranofin and sirolimus, which participants in this trial will receive, has not been very effective in treating patients with recurring high-grade serous ovarian cancer. Studies found that patients using this combination lived for about 4.4 months on average and experienced about 2.1 months before the cancer worsened. These results indicate limited success in managing ovarian cancer. Although researchers are exploring auranofin and sirolimus for their potential to reduce immune response, this has not led to significant improvements for ovarian cancer patients so far.13467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Aminah Jatoi, M.D.
Principal Investigator
Mayo Clinic
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for people with ovarian cancer, including serous cystadenoma, who have measurable disease and a life expectancy of at least 12 weeks. They should be relatively healthy (ECOG score 0 or 1) and have certain blood counts and chemistries within specific ranges. Those with controlled brain metastasis, unresolved effects from past treatments, or sensitive to platinum-based therapies are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive auranofin and sirolimus orally once daily on days 1-28. Courses repeat every 28 days in the absence of disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment completion every 6 months for 3 years.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Auranofin
- Sirolimus
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Mayo Clinic
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator