PaTcH Trial: A phase 2 study to explore primary and emerging resistance mechanisms in patients with metastatic refractory Pancreatic cancer treated with Trametinib and Hydrochloroquine.
Pancreatic cancer can be very challenging to treat, especially when it has spread to other parts of the body and stopped responding to standard chemotherapy. The PaTcH trial is a Phase 2 clinical study looking at a new combination of two tablets: trametinib and hydroxychloroquine. Trametinib blocks signals that cancer cells use to grow, while hydroxychloroquine is thought to stop cancer cells from recycling nutrients to survive. Researchers hope that taking both together will work better than either medicine alone. Participants take the tablets by mouth and attend regular hospital visits for check-ups and CT scans. The main goal is to see if this treatment can keep the cancer stable without growing for at least 12 weeks. The trial also monitors safety, side effects, and how long any benefits last, helping doctors find better ways to treat pancreatic cancer in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Pancreatic cancer often develops quietly, meaning many people are diagnosed after it has already spread to other organs (known as metastatic cancer). Standard treatments like chemotherapy can help for a time, but the cancer frequently finds ways to resist these drugs and begins to grow again. When this happens, doctors need new, effective options.
The PaTcH trial is investigating an experimental approach using two different medicines taken as tablets: trametinib and hydroxychloroquine. Trametinib is a targeted therapy designed to switch off specific growth signals inside cancer cells. However, when these signals are blocked, cancer cells often try to survive by clearing out and recycling their own damaged parts. Hydroxychloroquine—a drug traditionally used for malaria and arthritis—is believed to block this recycling process, cutting off the cancer's backup survival plan.
During the trial, doctors will closely monitor participants using CT scans of the chest, tummy, and pelvis. They will take scans before starting, after 6 weeks, after 12 weeks, and then every 8 weeks. The primary aim is to find out what percentage of patients have tumours that remain stable or shrink after 12 weeks of treatment.
By taking part, patients are helping researchers understand how pancreatic cancer resists treatment. Even if the combination does not work for everyone, the findings could provide vital clues that guide future cancer treatments and clinical trials across the UK.
Key takeaways
- The trial tests a combination of two oral medications: trametinib and hydroxychloroquine.
- It is for adults with advanced pancreatic cancer that has stopped responding to standard treatments.
- The primary measure of success is whether tumours remain stable after 12 weeks.
- Participants will have regular clinic visits and CT scans every 6 to 8 weeks.
- Joining is entirely your choice, and you can withdraw at any point without losing standard NHS support.
Who may be eligible?
This trial is open to adults aged 18 and over who have advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer. To be considered, standard cancer treatments must either have stopped working or must no longer be suitable for you.
Because the study involves taking tablets and having regular hospital visits, participants generally need to be well enough to care for themselves and be able to swallow oral medication. Your medical team will also check that your major organs, such as your liver, kidneys, and bone marrow, are functioning safely before you can join.
You may not be able to take part if you have certain other serious health issues, such as specific heart conditions, eye problems, or active infections, as these could make the trial medications unsafe. Your cancer specialist will go through your complete medical history to see if the trial is right for you.
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 older.
- I have been diagnosed with advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer.
- My cancer has continued to grow despite standard treatments, or standard options are no longer suitable.
- I am able to swallow tablets each day.
- I am able to attend regular outpatient hospital visits and CT scans.
What does participation involve?
If you take part in the PaTcH study, you will receive two medications in tablet form: trametinib and hydroxychloroquine. You will take these medicines at home as directed by the hospital team.
You will need to attend regular outpatient clinic visits for blood tests, physical checks, and discussions about how you are feeling. CT scans of your chest, abdomen, and pelvis will be scheduled before you start, at week 6, at week 12, and then roughly every 8 weeks.
You will continue taking the medication and having check-ups for as long as the treatment is controlling your cancer and the side effects are manageable. You can stay on the trial until your condition changes or until you choose to stop.
Potential risks and benefits
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Common questions
Do I have to stay overnight in hospital for this trial?
No, this trial is run on an outpatient basis. You take the tablets at home and come to the clinic for scheduled appointments, tests, and scans.
What is the main goal of the PaTcH study?
The main goal is to see whether the combination of trametinib and hydroxychloroquine can prevent the cancer from growing for at least 12 weeks.
Are these brand-new medicines?
Both drugs already exist and are used for other medical conditions, but using them together to treat pancreatic cancer is an experimental approach.
How often will I need CT scans?
You will have a scan before starting, then at 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and roughly every 8 weeks after that to see how your tumour is responding.
What happens if my cancer starts growing again?
If your scans show that the cancer is growing, or if you feel unwell, the study team will stop the trial medication and discuss other care and support options with you.
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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