Targeted Therapy for Salivary Gland Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores drug therapies for individuals with salivary gland cancer. It consists of two phases: first, testing tumor samples for specific changes, and second, administering treatments based on those results. If a tumor has a particular target, a matched drug will be administered; if not, the patient will receive Selinexor, a targeted therapy. Individuals with advanced salivary gland cancer that has spread or recurred and whose disease has worsened might be suitable candidates for this trial.
As an unphased study, this trial provides a unique opportunity to access personalized treatments based on the specific characteristics of the tumor.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot use drugs that may prolong the QTc interval (a measure of heart rhythm). 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 shows that the safety of treatments in this trial depends on the specific drugs used. For treatments like EGFR or HER2 inhibitors, studies have examined their effects in cancer treatment. These treatments are usually well-tolerated, but side effects can include skin rash and diarrhea due to their targeted action on cancer cells.
For patients taking Selinexor, research indicates that this drug can cause side effects like nausea and fatigue, but it specifically targets cancer cells while sparing normal ones. In past studies on recurring or spreading salivary gland tumors, Selinexor demonstrated a manageable safety profile. However, patients should be aware of possible side effects like low blood cell counts. This drug has already received FDA approval for other uses, confirming its basic safety.
In summary, while each treatment may have side effects, studies suggest they are generally manageable. Participants should consult their doctors about potential risks to understand what to expect.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for salivary gland cancer because they offer a targeted approach that goes beyond traditional chemotherapy and radiation. While most current treatments focus on broadly attacking fast-growing cancer cells, these investigational drugs target specific pathways and mutations that are driving the cancer. For example, the EGFR or HER2 inhibitors specifically block growth signals in cancer cells with those markers, and selinexor works by interfering with the cancer cells' ability to regulate proteins and grow. This precision targeting could potentially lead to more effective treatments with fewer side effects.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for salivary gland cancer?
Research has shown that certain treatments can be effective for salivary gland cancer. In this trial, participants may receive a matched therapy, which could include NOTCH inhibitors, HER2 inhibitors, or FGFR inhibitors, among others. NOTCH inhibitors have performed better than merely monitoring the cancer or using older treatments. HER2 inhibitors have also shown promise, even for patients who have tried other treatments before. FGFR inhibitors have demonstrated strong effects against tumors in lab studies.
For patients in this trial without specific genetic changes that can be targeted, selinexor serves as an unmatched treatment. Although it hasn't led to significant tumor shrinkage in studies, it has helped many patients prevent their cancer from growing further. Overall, these treatments offer potential ways to manage salivary gland cancer.23678Who Is on the Research Team?
Anna Spreafico, MD PhD
Principal Investigator
Princess Margaret Cancer Centre
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with advanced salivary gland cancer that has returned or spread, and there's no cure available. Participants need to have a measurable tumor, good heart and organ function, and no serious heart issues or drugs affecting their heartbeat. They must show disease progression and provide tissue samples for gene testing.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Molecular Profiling
Participants provide a sample of their tumor tissue to test for changes in certain genes
Treatment
Participants receive matched treatment based on molecular profiling results or Selinexor if unmatched
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Anti-androgen
- C-KIT Inhibitor
- EGFR or HER2 Inhibitor
- FGFR Inhibitor
- MEK or PI3K Inhibitor
- NOTCH Inhibitor
- Selinexor
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University Health Network, Toronto
Lead Sponsor