New drug cocktail aims to tackle childhood cancers that Won't quit

NCT ID NCT03611595

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Peter Zage Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This early-phase study tested a combination of two drugs, cabozantinib and 13-cis-retinoic acid, in 15 children whose solid tumors had come back or were not responding to standard treatments. The main goal was to find the safest dose and understand side effects. The study did not aim to cure the cancer, but to see if this drug pair could be a future option for controlling the disease.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Cabozantinib and 13-cis-retinoic acid (isotretinoin)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a new treatment option for children with hard-to-treat solid tumors that have come back or not responded to standard therapy.
What could go wrong: This is a very early phase I trial with only 15 children, focused on safety and dosing, not on effectiveness. The drug combination may not shrink tumors or may cause significant side effects.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

SOLID TUMOR

Contacts and locations

Locations

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

Atlanta, Georgia, 30322, United States
Rady Children's Hospital - San Diego

San Diego, California, 92123, United States

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