Experimental combo aims to rally immune system against tough liver cancer

NCT ID NCT03655002

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

Summary

This early-phase trial tests whether adding an immune-boosting drug called IRX-2 to standard immunotherapy (nivolumab) and a low dose of chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide) is safe and tolerable for people with advanced liver cancer that has come back or spread. Only 8 participants are enrolled, and the main goals are to find the best dose and watch for side effects. The study is not yet recruiting and is being run by City of Hope Medical Center.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

IRX-2 (a biologic that boosts the immune system), cyclophosphamide (chemotherapy), and nivolumab (immunotherapy)

What this could lead to

If it works, this combination could offer a new treatment option for people with advanced liver cancer that has not responded to other therapies.

What could go wrong

This is a very early phase 1 trial with only 8 participants, so it is mainly about safety and dosing. The treatment may not shrink tumors or improve survival, and side effects could be significant.

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.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for STAGE IV HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA AJCC V8 are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

carcinoma of liver and intrahepatic biliary tract hepatocellular carcinoma refractory malignant neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • City of Hope Medical Center

    Duarte, California, 91010, United States

  • HonorHealth Research Institute

    Scottsdale, Arizona, 85258, United States

  • Texas Oncology at Baylor Charles A Sammons Cancer Center

    Dallas, Texas, 75246, United States