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.
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
-
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
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Can an IDO1 inhibitor boost immunotherapy against liver cancer?
- New drug zanzalintinib tested for advanced liver cancer
- Liver cancer drug combo shows promise in large trial
- Home monitoring may keep cancer patients out of the ER
- Liver cancer drug trial halted after just 3 patients
- New combo therapy aims to shrink untreatable liver tumors