Could a Sugar-Blocking pill boost immunotherapy for tough cancers?

NCT ID NCT05913388

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

Summary

This phase 2 trial tests whether adding an experimental pill (GB1211) to the immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab (Keytruda) works better than Keytruda alone for people with advanced melanoma or head and neck cancer. The study will enroll 92 participants and measure how many patients' tumors shrink. GB1211 targets a protein called galectin-3, which may help cancer hide from the immune system.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
GB1211 (a galectin-3 inhibitor) and pembrolizumab (Keytruda)
What this could lead to
If it works, this combination could improve tumor shrinkage rates for people with advanced melanoma or head and neck cancer who have already tried standard treatments.
What could go wrong
This is a mid-stage trial with only 92 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Adding GB1211 could also increase side effects without improving outcomes.

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.

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Providence Portland Medical Center

    RECRUITING

    Portland, Oregon, 97213, United States

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