Experimental cell therapy targets tough cancers, but trial ends early

NCT ID NCT03745326

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

Summary

This early-phase trial tested a new approach: taking a patient's own white blood cells, genetically modifying them in the lab to recognize a specific cancer mutation (KRAS G12D), and infusing them back to attack tumors. The study enrolled only 5 adults with advanced gastrointestinal cancers. The trial was terminated early, so we have limited information on safety and effectiveness.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

genetically modified immune cells (anti-KRAS G12D murine T-cell receptor cells)

What this could lead to

If successful, this approach could point toward a new treatment for hard-to-treat cancers with a specific KRAS mutation.

What could go wrong

This trial was terminated early with only 5 participants, so results are very limited. The therapy involves strong chemotherapy and carries risks of severe side effects.

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.

colon carcinoma colonic neoplasm colorectal cancer digestive system cancer digestive system neoplasm gastric cancer gastric neoplasm malignant pancreatic neoplasm non-small cell lung carcinoma ovarian cancer pancreatic neoplasm prostate cancer rectal cancer rectal neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

    Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States