Vismodegib + Atezolizumab for Ovarian Cancer

This trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of combining two drugs, vismodegib and atezolizumab (an immunotherapy drug), in treating certain ovarian cancers that resist standard treatments. These include ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer that has become resistant to platinum-based chemotherapy. Individuals whose cancer has progressed within six months after their last platinum-based treatment may qualify. This trial provides an opportunity to explore a new treatment approach when options are limited. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on assessing the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants.

The trial protocol does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, certain treatments like systemic immunosuppressive medications and systemic immunostimulatory agents must be stopped before starting the trial. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.

Research shows that combining vismodegib and atezolizumab holds promise for treating certain cancers. Atezolizumab boosts the immune system's ability to fight cancer and is generally well tolerated. Patients with advanced ovarian and uterine cancers have used it without new safety concerns, and most side effects were mild.

Vismodegib, the other drug in this combination, has been used in other treatments as well. This trial is in a phase that evaluates the treatment's effectiveness, indicating some prior understanding of its safety.

Researchers are excited about the combination of vismodegib and atezolizumab for ovarian cancer because it targets the disease in a novel way. Vismodegib works by inhibiting the Hedgehog signaling pathway, a process that is often activated in cancer cells, while atezolizumab is an immune checkpoint inhibitor that helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. This dual approach not only targets the cancer cells directly but also enhances the body's immune response against the tumor. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which attacks all rapidly dividing cells, this combination aims to specifically disrupt cancer growth and boost immune activity, potentially leading to more effective and less toxic treatment outcomes.

This trial will evaluate the combination of vismodegib and atezolizumab for treating ovarian cancer that resists standard platinum-based treatments. Research has shown that vismodegib, which blocks a pathway aiding tumor growth, combined with atezolizumab, an immunotherapy that boosts the immune system to fight cancer cells, might enhance treatment effectiveness. Studies suggest this combination could outperform each drug used alone. Early results appear promising, but further research is needed to confirm its efficacy.¹²³⁶⁷