Ziftomenib + Chemotherapy for Leukemia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests the safety and dosage of ziftomenib, a potential new drug, combined with chemotherapy for a type of leukemia that has returned or is not responding to standard treatments. The study aims to determine the best dose for future trials by observing the drug's effects on the body. It seeks children and young adults with specific genetic types of leukemia that have relapsed or resisted treatment. Participants should have experienced a relapse or have a form of leukemia unresponsive to standard therapies. As a Phase 1 trial, participants will be among the first to receive this new treatment, aiding researchers in understanding its effects in people.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but it does mention that proton pump inhibitors are prohibited due to their effect on the absorption of ziftomenib. It's best to discuss your current medications with the trial team to see if any adjustments are needed.
Is there any evidence suggesting that ziftomenib in combination with chemotherapy is likely to be safe for humans?
Research shows that ziftomenib is generally safe for patients with certain types of acute leukemia. Studies have found that side effects are manageable and similar to those observed previously. Some patients experienced differentiation syndrome, which occurs when cancer cells mature too quickly, but it was manageable. Importantly, no major issues with heart rhythm were reported. Previous trials also showed no significant drop in blood cells, indicating a low risk of infection or bleeding. Only a small number of patients discontinued treatment due to side effects. Overall, the evidence suggests that ziftomenib is safe for those considering joining a clinical trial.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Unlike the standard treatment options for leukemia, which often revolve around conventional chemotherapy regimens, ziftomenib introduces a new mechanism of action by targeting specific proteins involved in cancer cell survival. Researchers are excited about ziftomenib because it offers a potentially more precise approach by working in combination with chemotherapy to enhance its effectiveness. This targeted action could result in better outcomes for patients, especially those who have not responded well to existing therapies.
What evidence suggests that ziftomenib might be an effective treatment for leukemia?
Research has shown that ziftomenib effectively treats certain types of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), particularly in patients with specific genetic changes like NPM1 and KMT2A. In earlier studies, 94% of newly diagnosed patients with these genetic changes experienced a significant reduction in cancer signs when treated with ziftomenib and chemotherapy. This indicates that most patients saw a noticeable improvement. In this trial, participants will receive ziftomenib combined with FLA chemotherapy, and those who respond well may continue with ziftomenib monotherapy. Additionally, ziftomenib has demonstrated strong and lasting effects in patients whose disease returned or did not respond to other treatments. Some patients no longer needed blood transfusions, improving their quality of life. These promising results suggest that ziftomenib could be a powerful option for difficult-to-treat leukemia.13467
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children with relapsed or refractory acute leukemia who have specific genetic alterations (KMT2A-r, NUP98-r, or NPM1-m). They must show a certain level of leukemic blasts in their bone marrow and not just isolated extramedullary disease. Participants should be aged 0-21 years, mostly under 18, and weigh at least 5 kg.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment Cycle 1
Participants receive escalating doses of ziftomenib in combination with FLA chemotherapy for 49 days
Treatment Cycle 2
Participants continue with ziftomenib and FLA chemotherapy for 28 days if they respond to Cycle 1
Extended Treatment
Participants may receive up to 10 additional cycles of ziftomenib monotherapy if there is a delay before HSCT
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Ziftomenib
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
LLS PedAL Initiative, LLC
Lead Sponsor
PedAL BCU, LLC
Lead Sponsor
Kura Oncology
Collaborator