Take two medications combined with radiation therapy for rectal cancer

Recruiting

What is this trial?

This trial is testing whether combining two oral medications— and —with radiation therapy can improve treatment outcomes for people with locally advanced rectal cancer. The trial focuses on patients whose tumors have specific genetic characteristics (MGMT silencing) that may make them respond better to this combination. About 21 patients will receive this combined treatment before surgery to see if it helps shrink their tumors more effectively than standard treatment alone.

Standard treatment for advanced rectal cancer works well for many patients, but doctors want to find better options, especially for patients who may not be candidates for the most intensive therapy approaches. By targeting tumors with specific genetic features, this medication combination may offer a more personalized approach that improves outcomes without unnecessarily intense treatment.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have been diagnosed with rectal cancer that has not spread beyond the pelvis and is still treatable with surgery
your tumor has specific genetic characteristics (MGMT silencing and mismatch repair proficiency) confirmed by testing
you are at least 18 years old and in generally good health (ECOG score 0-1)
you have normal or near-normal blood counts, liver function, and kidney function
you are willing and able to take oral medications twice daily for 5 weeks while receiving radiation

You likely don't qualify if…

you have cancer that has spread to other parts of your body
you are pregnant or unwilling to use contraception during and for 6 months after treatment
you have significantly low blood counts, liver disease, or kidney disease
your tumor involves the pelvic side walls or shows signs of vascular invasion on imaging

What participation looks like

If you join this trial, you will receive radiation therapy 5 days a week for about 5 weeks, along with taking two oral medications twice daily during those same 5 weeks. Before starting treatment, you'll have imaging tests and blood work to confirm you're eligible. After completing the combined treatment, you'll have surgery to remove the cancer. During and after treatment, you'll have regular clinic visits to monitor your health and watch for side effects.

Testing two drugs combined with radiation for advanced rectal cancer

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)