CCR2-Targeted Imaging for Pancreatic Cancer

This trial aims to improve pancreatic cancer treatment by testing a new imaging agent (64Cu-DOTA-ECLIi) alongside a CCR2-targeted therapy. The goal is to identify patients who will benefit from this therapy, potentially enhancing their quality of life while avoiding unnecessary side effects. The trial includes different groups: one undergoing surgery, another receiving standard chemotherapy, and a third receiving the new CCR2-targeted therapy. Patients with newly diagnosed pancreatic cancer, recurrent cancer, or locally advanced cancer that can be surgically removed might be suitable candidates. As a Phase 1 trial, this research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants the opportunity to be among the first to receive this new therapy.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that the imaging agent 64Cu-DOTA-ECL1i is under study for its ability to detect a protein called CCR2 in pancreatic cancer. This could help monitor changes in the cancer when using treatments targeting CCR2.

Currently, no specific tests exist to select patients for this therapy or to assess their response. Therefore, the imaging agent could become a valuable tool for better treatment planning. However, since this trial is in its early stages, researchers are still learning about the safety of 64Cu-DOTA-ECL1i in humans.

Researchers are excited about these treatments because they employ a novel imaging agent, 64Cu-DOTA-ECL1i, which targets the CCR2 receptor. This approach is different because it allows for precise imaging of pancreatic tumors, potentially improving the accuracy of diagnoses and the monitoring of treatment responses. Unlike traditional options that primarily rely on chemotherapy and surgery without such targeted imaging, this method could help tailor treatments more effectively to individual patients' needs. By providing detailed insights into the tumor environment, researchers hope this technique will lead to better outcomes for patients with pancreatic cancer.

Research has shown that the imaging agent 64Cu-DOTA-ECL1i, which targets CCR2, has potential based on early studies. It effectively detects CCR2, a protein linked to inflammation, in various disease models. In mice, this tracer demonstrated low toxicity and was quickly eliminated by the kidneys, suggesting potential safety for humans. In this trial, participants in Cohort 1a will undergo 64Cu-DOTA-ECL1i-PET/CT imaging after neoadjuvant therapy and surgery, while those in Cohort 1b will receive standard chemotherapy with imaging before and during treatment. Cohort 2 will explore CCR2-targeted therapy with imaging before and after treatment cycles. Although a clinical marker for CCR2-targeted therapy does not yet exist, this imaging agent could identify patients who might benefit from these treatments, which is crucial because some therapies can be highly toxic. The main goal is to use this imaging to guide treatment and improve outcomes for pancreatic cancer patients.¹³⁵⁶⁷