Promising combo for tough breast cancer hits early snag

NCT ID NCT04216472

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

Summary

This early-phase trial tested a combination of two drugs—nab-paclitaxel (a chemotherapy) and alpelisib (a targeted therapy)—in patients with triple-negative breast cancer that had specific genetic changes (PIK3CA or PTEN) and didn't respond to standard treatment. The goal was to shrink tumors before surgery. However, the study was stopped early after enrolling only 6 people, so we have very little data on how well it works or its side effects.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

nab-paclitaxel and alpelisib

What this could lead to

If successful, this combination could shrink tumors before surgery in patients with a hard-to-treat form of breast cancer that hasn't responded to standard chemotherapy.

What could go wrong

The trial was terminated early with only 6 participants, so results are very limited. It's unclear if the combination is safe or effective, and it only applies to patients with specific genetic mutations.

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.

breast cancer breast neoplasm refractory malignant neoplasm triple-negative breast carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • M D Anderson Cancer Center

    Houston, Texas, 77030, United States