Experimental drug cocktail aims to shrink esophageal tumors before surgery

NCT ID NCT06654297

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This early-phase trial tests whether combining two drugs—camrelizumab (an immunotherapy) and palbociclib (a targeted therapy)—is safe and feasible when given before surgery for esophageal cancer. Six adults with resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma will receive the drugs for about three months, then undergo surgery. The main goals are to check for side effects and ensure the treatment doesn't delay surgery.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

camrelizumab and palbociclib

What this could lead to

If this combination proves safe and feasible, it could lead to a new pre-surgery treatment option for esophageal cancer that may improve tumor shrinkage before surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a very early phase 1 trial with only 6 participants, so results may not apply to larger groups. The drugs can cause side effects like immune reactions or low blood cell counts, and the combination may not improve outcomes.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • West China Hospital, Sichuan University

    Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China