New drug combo aims to shrink rectal tumors before surgery

NCT ID NCT04926324

First seen Jun 29, 2026 · Last updated Jun 30, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial investigates whether combining two drugs, niraparib and dostarlimab, with a short course of radiation before surgery can help treat locally advanced rectal cancer. The study first finds a safe dose of niraparib, then checks how well the combination shrinks the tumor. Participants have resectable, locally advanced rectal cancer and receive this treatment before their planned surgery.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

niraparib and dostarlimab

What this could lead to

If successful, this combination could offer a new preoperative treatment option for locally advanced rectal cancer, potentially improving tumor shrinkage and patient outcomes.

What could go wrong

This is an early-phase trial with only 3 participants, so safety and effectiveness are not yet established. The combination may cause side effects or not work as hoped.

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.

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

  • Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Iowa

    Iowa City, Iowa, 52242, United States