Olaparib +/− Atezolizumab for Advanced Breast Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores the effectiveness of two treatments, olaparib and atezolizumab, both individually and combined, against certain types of advanced breast cancer. Olaparib targets and blocks an enzyme that aids cancer cells in repairing damaged DNA, while atezolizumab, an immunotherapy drug, helps the immune system attack cancer cells. Individuals with non-HER2-positive breast cancer that has spread or cannot be surgically removed, and who have a BRCA 1/2 mutation, might be suitable for this trial. Participants will receive one or both treatments to determine which combination most effectively stops or shrinks the cancer. As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, allowing participants to contribute to significant advancements in cancer therapy.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires stopping certain medications before starting the study. You must stop chemotherapy 4 weeks prior, nitrosoureas or mitomycin C 6 weeks prior, and hormone therapy 2 weeks prior. Additionally, there are specific washout periods for certain drugs like strong CYP3A inhibitors (2 weeks) and inducers (3-5 weeks).
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that olaparib is generally well-tolerated by people with breast cancer. One study found no evidence of harmful effects accumulating over time, making it a promising option for extended treatments.
When combined with atezolizumab, an immunotherapy drug, olaparib aims to enhance the body's immune response to cancer. Although specific safety data for this combination is still under investigation, both drugs have FDA approval for other uses, suggesting confidence in their safety.
Overall, the treatment options in this trial have demonstrated promise in other contexts, and their safety in humans is under careful monitoring.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments because Olaparib and Atezolizumab offer a novel approach to treating advanced breast cancer. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which targets rapidly dividing cells indiscriminately, Olaparib is a PARP inhibitor that specifically disrupts cancer cell DNA repair mechanisms, potentially leading to cancer cell death. Atezolizumab, on the other hand, is an immunotherapy that empowers the body's immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. This combination aims to enhance the effectiveness of treatment by attacking the cancer on two fronts: disrupting its ability to repair itself and boosting the immune response against it.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for advanced breast cancer?
Research has shown that olaparib, which participants in this trial may receive, effectively treats metastatic breast cancer. It reduced the risk of cancer growth, spread, or death by 42% compared to some chemotherapy treatments. In another study, 9% of patients treated with olaparib had a complete response, compared to 1.5% of those receiving standard therapy. In this trial, some participants will receive olaparib alone, while others will receive a combination of olaparib and atezolizumab, an immunotherapy drug. This combination may help the immune system attack cancer cells and stop their growth. The combination has shown promise in treating various types of cancer, suggesting it could also benefit breast cancer.12346
Who Is on the Research Team?
Patricia M Lorusso
Principal Investigator
Yale University Cancer Center LAO
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults with non-HER2-positive breast cancer that's locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic and have a BRCA mutation. They must not be on certain medications, have measurable disease, good organ function, no major surgery within the last 28 days, and agree to use effective contraception.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 on days 1-21 of each cycle, with cycles repeating every 21 days. In Arm II, atezolizumab is also administered intravenously on day 1 of each cycle.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment completion, with follow-up at 30 days and every 4-8 weeks for those who discontinue treatment for reasons other than disease progression.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Atezolizumab
- Olaparib
Atezolizumab is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Melanoma
- Hepatocellular carcinoma
- Small cell lung cancer
- Non-small cell lung cancer
- Urothelial carcinoma
- Melanoma
- Hepatocellular carcinoma
- Small cell lung cancer
- Non-small cell lung cancer
- Urothelial carcinoma
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Lead Sponsor