New drug cocktail aims to revive immune attack on head and neck tumors
NCT ID NCT03019003
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This early-phase study tested a combination of two drugs—oral decitabine and durvalumab—in 13 adults with advanced head and neck cancer that had stopped responding to standard immunotherapy. The goal was to see if the combo could safely boost the immune system's ability to fight the cancer. The study focused on safety and changes in immune markers, not on curing 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
Oral decitabine (ASTX727) and durvalumab (MEDI4736)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a new treatment option for head and neck cancer patients whose disease has stopped responding to standard immunotherapy.
What could go wrong
This is a very early, small phase 1 study with only 13 participants. The main goal is to check safety and immune changes, not to prove the treatment works. There is no guarantee of benefit, and side effects are possible.
Disclaimer
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States