MATVAC-1 : EVALUATION OF UCPVAX VACCINE +/- PEMBROLIZUMAB COMBINED WITH STANDARD TREATMENT AS ADJUVANT THERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH UNMETHYLATED MGMT GLIOBLASTOMA
This study is for adults with a serious type of brain cancer called glioblastoma, where their cancer cells have a particular genetic marker (unmethylated MGMT). It's a Phase II trial, meaning it's still in the earlier stages of testing new treatments. Researchers want to see if adding a vaccine called UCPVAX, sometimes with another drug called pembrolizumab, to the usual care improves how long patients live. They are particularly interested in how many patients are alive 18 months after starting the trial. The study also looks at how long it takes for the cancer to grow again, overall survival, side effects, and changes to the body's immune system, as well as how the treatments affect a patient's quality of life.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study, called MATVAC-1, is a research project designed to explore new ways to treat a specific, aggressive type of brain tumour called glioblastoma. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with glioblastoma, you know how challenging this condition can be.
The researchers are testing a new approach that combines standard treatments for glioblastoma with a vaccine called UCPVAX. In some cases, another medicine called pembrolizumab might also be used alongside the vaccine. The main goal is to find out if these new combinations can help people with glioblastoma live longer, especially looking at how many patients are still alive 18 months after starting the trial. This is a "Phase II" study, which means it’s an early-stage trial focusing on whether these new treatments are safe and show promise.
Beyond simply looking at how long people live, the study will also track several other important things. This includes how long it takes for the cancer to show signs of growing again, any side effects people might experience, and how the treatments affect their immune system. Researchers will also be checking in with participants to understand how the new treatments impact their daily life and general well-being.
Key takeaways
- This study is testing new treatments for glioblastoma (a type of brain tumour).
- It involves a vaccine (UCPVAX) and potentially another drug (pembrolizumab).
- The main aim is to see if patients live longer after starting the trial.
- Researchers will also track side effects and quality of life.
- It's for adults with a specific genetic marker in their glioblastoma (unmethylated MGMT).
Who may be eligible?
To be considered for this study, you must be an adult aged 18 or older. There is no upper age limit.
Both men and women can take part in this research. The study is specifically for people who have been diagnosed with glioblastoma, a type of brain tumour, and whose tumour cells have a specific feature known as 'unmethylated MGMT'. Your doctor will be able to tell you if this applies to your situation.
Beyond these basic requirements, there will be other medical checks and conditions that your doctor will review to make sure this study is the right fit for you and that it's safe for you to participate.
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 18 years old or older?
- Have you been diagnosed with glioblastoma?
- Has your doctor confirmed your glioblastoma has the 'unmethylated MGMT' feature?
- Are you generally able to attend regular hospital appointments?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you'll receive your usual treatment for glioblastoma, along with either the UCPVAX vaccine, or the vaccine combined with pembrolizumab. The specific treatment you receive will be decided randomly, like flipping a coin. You will have regular appointments where doctors will check your health, give you the study medicines, and monitor your progress. This will involve physical examinations, blood tests, and scans to see how your tumour is responding.
Researchers will also ask you to complete questionnaires about your quality of life, which will help them understand how the treatment affects your daily well-being. Throughout the study, medical staff will be closely watching for any side effects. After your main treatment period, you will continue to have follow-up appointments to monitor your health and the course of your cancer. The total duration of your participation, including follow-up, will depend on how your treatment progresses and is expected to last for a significant period to track long-term outcomes, such as living for at least 18 months after starting the trial.
Potential risks and benefits
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Common questions
What is glioblastoma?
Glioblastoma is a very serious and aggressive type of brain tumour. This study is looking at new ways to treat it.
What is 'unmethylated MGMT'?
This is a specific feature found in some glioblastoma cells. Your doctor will be able to confirm if your tumour has this feature, as it's important for this study.
What is UCPVAX?
UCPVAX is a vaccine being tested in this study. It's designed to help your body's immune system fight the cancer.
What is pembrolizumab?
Pembrolizumab is a medicine that helps your immune system recognise and attack cancer cells. In this study, it may be given alongside the vaccine and standard treatment.
Will I definitely receive the new treatments?
In this study, some participants will receive the new treatments, while others will receive standard care. This is decided by chance to fairly compare the different treatment groups.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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