CAR-NK Cells + Belzutifan for Pancreatic Cancer

This trial tests a new treatment combining CAR-engineered NK cells (a type of immunotherapy) with a medication called belzutifan for pancreatic cancer. The researchers aim to determine the safety of this combination and identify the best dose for future studies. This trial targets individuals with pancreatic cancer unresponsive to previous treatments like FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine, who are willing to undergo certain procedures and tests. Participants will receive part of the treatment in the hospital and continue taking belzutifan at home. As a Phase 1 trial, this research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants the opportunity to be among the first to receive this innovative therapy.

The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, you must be at least 5 half-lives from your last cytotoxic chemotherapy before starting the trial, and you cannot be on certain treatments like live vaccines or investigational agents close to the trial start.

Research has shown that TROP2 CAR-engineered NK cells could help treat cancers like pancreatic and ovarian. Early studies found these cells effective and safe, as they can kill cancer cells without causing major problems.

Belzutifan, another part of the trial, has been used in patients with Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease and demonstrated a good safety record over long-term use. Some patients needed dose adjustments, but the treatment remained manageable. Its approval for other conditions further indicates its safety.

Researchers are excited about the combination of CAR-NK cells and Belzutifan for pancreatic cancer because it introduces a novel approach to treatment. Unlike traditional therapies like chemotherapy or targeted drugs, this treatment uses engineered immune cells, specifically TROP2 CAR/IL-15 TGFBR2 KO NK cells, to target and destroy cancer cells more effectively. Additionally, Belzutifan is an oral medication that can be self-administered at home, potentially making it more convenient for patients compared to standard intravenous treatments. This combination has the potential to enhance the body's natural immune response against cancer while offering a more patient-friendly treatment regimen.

Research has shown that TROP2 CAR-engineered NK cells, which participants in this trial will receive, could effectively fight cancers like pancreatic cancer. These cells are specially designed to find and destroy cancer cells by recognizing a protein called TROP2 on their surface. Early studies suggest they can help shrink tumors in pancreatic and ovarian cancers.

Participants in this trial will also receive Belzutifan, which has shown promising results in treating pancreatic growths related to von Hippel–Lindau disease. Specifically, 84% of patients experienced tumor shrinkage or disappearance.