Olaparib and durvalumab (MEDI4736) in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer and DNA Damage Repair genes alterations
Pancreatic cancer can be very challenging to treat, especially when it has spread to other parts of the body. This phase II clinical trial investigates whether a combination of two medicines, olaparib and durvalumab, can help adults with advanced pancreatic cancer. The trial focuses on tumours that have changes in their DNA damage repair genes. These faults can make cancer cells less able to fix themselves. Olaparib targets this weakness, while durvalumab is an immunotherapy drug that helps the immune system spot and destroy cancer cells. Researchers want to see how many patients have their tumours shrink or disappear, how long the treatment keeps the cancer stable, and what side effects occur. Participation is completely voluntary, and patients receive regular scans and blood tests to monitor their health throughout the trial.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Pancreatic cancer starts in the pancreas, an organ that helps digest food and control blood sugar. When pancreatic cancer is metastatic, it means cancer cells have spread to other areas, such as the liver or lungs. Standard treatments can sometimes struggle to keep advanced pancreatic cancer under control, so doctors are looking for new, targeted approaches.
Every cell in our body has systems to fix damaged DNA. Some cancer cells carry genetic faults that make these repair systems faulty. While this sounds bad, it can actually make cancer cells easier to target with special medicines. Olaparib is a targeted drug that blocks another repair tool inside cancer cells, making it very hard for them to survive. Durvalumab is an immunotherapy medicine that encourages your body's own immune system to recognise and fight cancer.
This trial combines olaparib and durvalumab to see if they work well together. Doctors hope that blocking DNA repair while boosting the immune system will deliver a powerful double blow against the cancer. By testing this approach, researchers hope to offer a new treatment option that helps people live longer with a better quality of life.
Key takeaways
- Tests a combination of two cancer medicines: olaparib and durvalumab.
- Aimed at adults with metastatic pancreatic cancer.
- Requires tumours to have specific faults in their DNA repair systems.
- A phase II study checking tumour shrinkage, survival, and safety.
- Participation is voluntary, with close monitoring by specialist cancer doctors.
Who may be eligible?
This trial is open to men and women aged 18 and over who have been diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic cancer. To take part, your tumour must have specific alterations in DNA damage repair genes. These alterations are usually identified by testing a small sample of your tumour tissue in a laboratory.
You will also need to be reasonably active and well enough to attend hospital visits and handle the treatments safely. Your care team will review your medical history, kidney function, and liver function to make sure it is safe for you to take part.
You may not be able to join if you have certain other serious medical conditions, active autoimmune diseases, or if you have recently had treatments that could interfere with the study medicines. Your doctor can explain whether your specific cancer type and general health match the trial criteria.
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.
- I am aged 18 or over.
- I have been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer that has spread (metastatic).
- My tumour has been tested or can be tested for DNA damage repair gene changes.
- I am well enough to attend regular hospital appointments.
- I am willing to take daily tablets and receive treatments through a drip.
What does participation involve?
If you take part, you will visit the hospital clinic regularly for treatment and health checks. Durvalumab is given as a liquid through a drip into a vein, usually every few weeks at the day clinic. Olaparib is taken as tablets by mouth at home.
During your visits, you will have regular blood tests, physical examinations, and blood pressure checks. You will also have imaging scans, such as CT or MRI scans, every few weeks to check whether your tumours are shrinking or staying stable. The study team will closely monitor you for any side effects. You can remain on the treatment for as long as it helps keep your cancer under control and the side effects are manageable. After treatment stops, the team will continue to check on your health and well-being.
Potential risks and benefits
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Common questions
What are DNA damage repair alterations?
These are changes in the genes that normally help cells fix damaged DNA. When cancer cells have these faults, they can become more sensitive to targeted medicines like olaparib.
How are the study medicines given?
Durvalumab is given through a drip into a vein at the hospital, while olaparib is taken as tablets by mouth at home.
Will taking part cure my pancreatic cancer?
This treatment is not expected to cure metastatic pancreatic cancer. The goal is to shrink tumours, slow down the cancer, and help people live longer with good quality of life.
Can I leave the trial if I change my mind?
Yes. You have the right to withdraw from the trial at any point, and your normal NHS care and support will continue as usual.
Do I have to pay for the trial treatments?
No. The trial medicines and tests related to the study are provided free of charge as part of the clinical trial.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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