Combining a new drug with immunotherapy to treat advanced melanoma

A Phase I Proof-of-Concept Study of CBL0137 Combined with Ipilimumab and Nivolumab Therapy in Locally Advanced or Metastatic Melanoma

NIH-funded research Research Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr · NIH-10867390

This study is exploring a new way to boost cancer treatment for people with advanced melanoma by using a special molecule called CBL0137 alongside two common immunotherapy drugs, nivolumab and ipilimumab, to help your immune system fight the cancer better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionResearch Inst of Fox Chase Can Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10867390 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach to enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy in patients with locally advanced or metastatic melanoma. The study will test a small molecule called CBL0137, which activates a process known as necroptosis, in combination with two existing immunotherapy drugs, nivolumab and ipilimumab. By triggering necroptosis, the goal is to overcome the immunosuppressive environment of tumors and improve the immune response against cancer. Patients will be closely monitored to assess the safety and effectiveness of this combination treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with locally advanced or metastatic melanoma who have not responded to previous immunotherapy treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage melanoma or those who have not yet undergone immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve treatment outcomes for patients with advanced melanoma who currently do not respond to existing immunotherapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to enhance immunotherapy effectiveness, but this specific combination is novel.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.