Cadonilimab + Chemotherapy for Stomach Cancer

This trial tests whether adding cadonilimab to standard chemotherapy enhances treatment effectiveness and safety for individuals with certain types of stomach or gastroesophageal junction cancer. Cadonilimab, an experimental drug, is combined with chemotherapy to determine if it shrinks tumors more effectively than chemotherapy alone. Individuals with HER2-negative stomach cancer that can be surgically removed and who have not received previous cancer treatments may be suitable for this study. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on evaluating the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, providing participants an opportunity to contribute to significant advancements in cancer treatment.

The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on high doses of corticosteroids or immunosuppressive medications, you may not be eligible to participate.

Research shows that cadonilimab, when combined with chemotherapy, is generally well-tolerated by patients with stomach and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer. Studies have found that the most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and low white blood cell counts, known as neutropenia and leukopenia. Specifically, about 72% of patients experienced nausea, 60% had vomiting, 51% had neutropenia, and 45% had leukopenia.

Cadonilimab is unique because it combines the power of an antibody with the precision of immune checkpoint inhibition. Unlike traditional chemotherapy and HER2-targeted therapies for stomach cancer, Cadonilimab targets specific proteins involved in immune regulation, helping the body's own immune system fight the cancer more effectively. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it offers a new mechanism of action that could improve outcomes for patients with HER2-negative gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma, potentially leading to better survival rates and fewer side effects.

Research has shown that cadonilimab, when combined with chemotherapy, can extend the lives of patients with advanced stomach and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer. One study found that patients receiving cadonilimab and chemotherapy lived an average of 13.9 months, compared to 11.1 months for those receiving a placebo with chemotherapy. Another study reported even longer survival for patients treated with cadonilimab, with an average of 14.1 months. Additionally, cadonilimab significantly extends the time patients live without their cancer worsening. In this trial, participants with HER2-negative gastric or GEJ adenocarcinoma will receive cadonilimab combined with chemotherapy, exploring its potential as a promising treatment for this specific cancer type.¹²³⁵⁶