Can a targeted drug boost standard chemo for a rare blood cancer?

NCT ID NCT04626791

First seen Jul 22, 2026 · Last updated Jul 23, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests whether adding acalabrutinib—a targeted drug that blocks a key enzyme in cancer cells—to a standard chemotherapy cocktail (modified VR-CAP) can improve outcomes for people with mantle cell lymphoma who are eligible for a stem cell transplant. The study enrolls adults aged 18–75 who have not received prior treatment. The goal is to see if the combination leads to a complete metabolic response, meaning no signs of active cancer after therapy.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
a combination of modified VR-CAP (bortezomib, rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, prednisone, cytarabine) plus acalabrutinib
What this could lead to
If successful, this combination could become a more effective first-line therapy for mantle cell lymphoma, potentially improving complete response rates before transplant.
What could go wrong
This is a small Phase II trial, so results may not generalize. Adding acalabrutinib to chemotherapy may increase side effects like bleeding, infection, or heart issues.

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

  • Carolinas Medical Center/Levine Cancer Institute

    Charlotte, North Carolina, 28203, United States

  • Mount Sinai Hospital

    New York, New York, 10029, United States

  • University of Washington Medical Center - Montlake

    Seattle, Washington, 98195, United States

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