Engineered cord blood cells take aim at stubborn colorectal cancer

NCT ID NCT06358430

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Aug 05, 2026 · Updated 5 times

Summary

This early-phase trial tests a new combination therapy for people with colorectal cancer who have minimal residual disease (MRD) — tiny amounts of cancer left after treatment. The approach uses specially engineered immune cells from cord blood (TROP2-CAR-NK cells) plus a targeted drug called cetuximab. The study will enroll 42 adults to find the safest dose and check for 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
TROP2-CAR-NK cells (engineered immune cells from cord blood) plus cetuximab
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a way to eliminate leftover cancer cells after standard treatment, potentially preventing colorectal cancer from coming back.
What could go wrong
This is a very early Phase 1 trial with only 42 people, so the main goal is safety, not proof of effectiveness. The treatment involves strong chemotherapy and immune cells, which can cause serious side effects.

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

  • MD Anderson Cancer Center

    Houston, Texas, 77030, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.