Supercharged immune cells take on incurable tumors

NCT ID NCT04520711

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

Summary

This early-phase trial tests a new approach for people with advanced epithelial cancers that cannot be cured. Researchers take a patient's own immune cells, genetically engineer them to recognize unique cancer markers, and infuse them back along with two drugs that boost the immune response. The main goal is to check safety in 24 participants, with early signs of tumor shrinkage also tracked.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Engineered immune cells (TCR-T) plus two immune-boosting drugs (CDX-1140 and pembrolizumab)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a new treatment option for people with advanced cancers that currently have no cure.

What could go wrong

This is a very early (phase I) safety study with only 24 participants. The treatment may not shrink tumors, and side effects could be serious.

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.

carcinoma metastatic malignant neoplasm metastatic neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Providence Portland Medical Center

    Portland, Oregon, 97213, United States