A phase II trial of CY-101 in participants with adrenocortical cancer
This study is testing a new drug called CY-101 for people with adrenocortical cancer (ACC) which has spread. CY-101 works in two main ways: by damaging cancer cells directly and by helping the body's immune system fight the cancer. It's given by injecting it into the cancerous areas. The main goals are to find the safest and most effective dose of CY-101, learn about its side effects, and see how it affects patients' quality of life. The trial will involve 41 participants aged 16 or over who have already had 1 or 2 other treatments for their ACC.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This clinical trial is designed to investigate a new treatment called CY-101 for a type of cancer known as adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC). This is a cancer that starts in the outer layer of the adrenal glands, which sit on top of your kidneys. The focus of this study is on ACC that has spread to nearby areas or other organs in the body. CY-101 is a new drug, and researchers believe it could be a promising way to fight this cancer.
CY-101 works in a unique way: it directly attacks cancer cells by breaking down their outer layer. It also gets inside the cancer cells to reduce levels of a protein that helps them survive. Both of these actions help to trigger your body's own immune system to target and destroy more cancer cells, not just where the drug is injected, but also in other areas where the cancer may have spread. The drug has been tested in earlier trials, and now the team wants to see if it's effective for people with ACC.
The main aims of this trial are to find the best and safest dose of CY-101 for people with ACC, to see if it helps to treat the cancer, and to understand any potential side effects. Researchers will also learn how CY-101 affects people's daily lives and how the drug behaves once it's in the body. This study could help us learn valuable information about treating ACC in the future.
Key takeaways
- This trial is for a new drug, CY-101, for advanced adrenocortical cancer.
- CY-101 works by attacking cancer cells and boosting your immune system.
- The drug is given by injection directly into the cancerous areas.
- The study aims to find the best dose and assess its effectiveness and safety.
- Participants must have had 1 or 2 previous treatments for their spread ACC.
- Your contribution could help improve future treatments for ACC.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for around 41 people aged 16 or older who have adrenocortical cancer (ACC) that has spread and cannot be removed by surgery. You would need to have already received one or two other treatments for this advanced cancer, and it's important that your cancer has recently shown signs of growing. You must also have a life expectancy of at least 12 weeks and be generally well enough to take part.
To join, you need to have at least one cancerous area that can be measured to see if the treatment is working. This area should also be suitable for direct injection. It's also important to have some tissue available from a past biopsy or surgery for further testing. You won't be able to join if you've had certain other treatments like chemotherapy or radiotherapy in the last 28 days, although continued treatment with a drug called mitotane may be allowed under specific conditions.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 16 years old or older?
- Do you have adrenocortical cancer that has spread?
- Have you already had 1 or 2 treatments for your advanced cancer?
- Is your cancer showing signs of growth?
- Are you able to attend regular hospital appointments for injections and tests?
- Are you not currently pregnant and willing to use contraception as required?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, the trial will happen in two main stages. In the first stage, a smaller number of participants will receive different doses of CY-101 to help researchers find the best and safest dose. In the second stage, more people will receive this chosen dose to gather more information about how well it works and its effects.
CY-101 will be given directly into your cancer spots (known as lesions) using a needle. This is called an intratumoural injection. These injections will often be guided by scans like ultrasound or CT scans to make sure the drug goes into the right place. You will need to make regular visits to the hospital for these injections, along with tests like blood tests, scans (CT and PET scans), and possibly further biopsies. These close check-ups are to monitor your health, see how the treatment is working, and identify any side effects. The study is planned to run from March 2026 to July 2032.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (7)
- Guy’s HospitalApproximateLondon, England
- The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyWirral, England
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS TrustCity onlyLeeds, England
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyLondon, England
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS TrustCity onlyLondon, England
- The Christie NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyManchester, England
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyBirmingham, England
Common questions
What is adrenocortical carcinoma?
It's a rare cancer that starts in the outer part of the adrenal glands, which are small glands located above your kidneys.
How is CY-101 given?
It's injected directly into the cancerous areas (lesions) in your body, often guided by ultrasound or CT scans.
What is a 'Phase II' trial?
This phase focuses on finding the best dose of a new treatment and checking its effectiveness and safety in a larger group of patients.
Who is funding this research?
The study is funded by Cancer Research UK.
Can I still take other treatments while on this trial?
Generally, most other cancer treatments are not allowed during the trial, but continued treatment with a drug called mitotane might be permitted under specific rules.
How to find out more
Lesley McGuigan
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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