Decitabine + Standard Therapy for Head and Neck Cancer

This trial explores the effectiveness of combining the drug decitabine with standard treatments such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy for certain types of head and neck cancer. The focus is on cancers not linked to HPV, which can be surgically removed and may respond better to treatment with decitabine. Participants with HPV-negative head and neck cancer that can be surgically removed might be suitable candidates. The trial primarily assesses the safety and effectiveness of this combined approach. As a Phase 1 trial, the research aims to understand how the treatment works in people, offering participants the opportunity to be among the first to receive this new treatment.

The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial team or your doctor to understand how your medications might interact with the trial treatments.

Research has shown that decitabine has undergone testing in various studies for safety. One study found that the most common side effect was a drop in blood cell counts. Another study reported side effects such as a low white blood cell count, nausea, and high levels of fat in the blood. Despite these side effects, decitabine has been used in cancer treatments and is generally considered manageable. Additionally, health authorities have already approved decitabine for certain conditions, suggesting its recognized safety. However, this trial is in an early phase, focusing on assessing safety and determining the right dose. More data is being collected to fully understand its tolerance in this specific use.¹²³⁴⁵

Unlike the standard treatments for head and neck cancer, which typically involve surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, Decitabine offers a unique approach. Researchers are excited about Decitabine because it acts as a DNA hypomethylating agent, potentially reactivating genes that suppress tumors. This mechanism could enhance the effectiveness of traditional therapies by making cancer cells more sensitive to treatment. Additionally, Decitabine is administered intravenously over a short period, which might lead to faster results compared to conventional chemotherapy. This innovative approach provides hope for improved outcomes in head and neck cancer treatment.

Research has shown that decitabine, which participants in this trial will receive, may increase tumor cells' sensitivity to treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. Studies have found that combining decitabine with chemotherapy can enhance the responsiveness of head and neck cancer to drugs like cisplatin. Specifically, one study discovered that decitabine improved the response of head and neck cancer cells to cisplatin. Additionally, decitabine can alter cancer cell growth and spread, making them easier to target and kill with standard treatments. These early findings suggest that adding decitabine to traditional treatments could improve outcomes for patients with this type of cancer.¹³⁶⁷⁸