A study of safety, feasibility and immunologic response of transfering tumor infiltrating lymphocytes with or without dendritic cell vaccination in patients with metastatic melanoma
This study is investigating a new and experimental treatment for people with advanced melanoma, which is a serious type of skin cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. The treatment involves taking immune cells, called tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes, from the patient's own tumour. These cells are then grown in a lab and given back to the patient to help their body fight the cancer. In some cases, a special vaccine might also be used alongside these cells to try and boost the immune system further. The main purpose of this early-stage study is to check if this treatment approach is safe for patients and to understand how their immune system responds to it. This research is important for finding better ways to treat this challenging cancer.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research is looking into a new way to treat advanced melanoma, a type of skin cancer that has spread to other areas of the body. Currently, doctors are always searching for better treatments for this condition. This study focuses on using the body's own defence system, called the immune system, to fight the cancer cells.
The treatment involves taking special immune cells, known as 'tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes,' directly from a patient's tumour. These cells are naturally found within the tumour and have the potential to recognise and kill cancer cells. In the lab, a large number of these cells are grown. Then, they are given back to the patient through an infusion, like a drip, hoping they will target and destroy the cancer.
Some patients in the study might also receive a 'dendritic cell vaccine.' Dendritic cells are another important part of the immune system that can help teach other immune cells how to identify and attack cancer. It's hoped that combining these approaches could make the treatment even more effective. This is an early stage study, meaning it's primarily focused on seeing if the treatment is safe and how people's bodies react to it, rather than yet proving it cures the cancer.
Key takeaways
- This study explores a new immune-based treatment for advanced melanoma.
- It uses your own body's defence cells to fight cancer, sometimes with a special vaccine.
- The main aim is to check if the new treatment is safe and how your body responds.
- It's an early-stage study for people with melanoma that has spread to internal organs.
- You must be 18 or older to consider participating, with no upper age limit.
- Always discuss with your doctor if this trial is right for you.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for volunteers who have advanced melanoma, which means it's a serious type of skin cancer that has spread to organs inside the body. Importantly, the cancer must be measurable, meaning doctors can see and track its size.
To join, you must be 18 years old or older. There is no upper age limit, so both younger adults and older adults are welcome to participate if they meet the other criteria. The study is open to both men and women.
If you have advanced melanoma and are wondering if this study might be an option for you, it's really important to talk to your doctor. They can help you understand all the requirements and discuss if this particular study is suitable for your specific situation.
- Do I have advanced melanoma that has spread to internal organs?
- Can doctors measure the size of my cancer where it has spread?
- Am I 18 years old or older?
- Am I generally well enough to consider a new treatment?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you will be closely monitored by a team of doctors and nurses. This is an early-stage study, so the focus will be on understanding how your body reacts to the new treatment. You will likely have regular hospital visits for blood tests, scans, and check-ups to see how the treatment is affecting you and the cancer. You will receive the immune cell treatment through an infusion, and if applicable, the special vaccine. The exact number of visits, tests, and the total duration of your participation will be explained in detail by the study team, as it can vary based on your individual response and the study protocol.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- —Sweden
Common questions
What is advanced melanoma?
Advanced melanoma is a serious type of skin cancer that has spread from where it started to other parts of your body, like your internal organs.
What are immune cells, and how do they help?
Immune cells are part of your body's natural defence system. In this study, we're using special immune cells from your own tumour that are grown in a lab to help fight your cancer.
Is this a new treatment?
Yes, this is an experimental treatment being tested in an early-stage study. Its main purpose is to see if it's safe and how your body reacts to it.
Will I get a vaccine?
Some patients in this study might receive a special 'vaccine' designed to help boost their immune system's ability to fight the cancer, in addition to the immune cell treatment.
Can women take part in this study?
Yes, this study is open to both men and women who meet all the other requirements.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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