Combining a new vaccine with pembrolizumab for treating recurrent ovarian cancer

A phase I/II study of combined therapy with Th17-inducing dendritic cells and pembrolizumab in patients with recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Jacksonville · NIH-10876253

This study is testing a new way to help women with recurrent ovarian cancer by using a vaccine to boost their immune system, followed by a medication called pembrolizumab to keep that immune response strong, with the hope of improving their treatment results.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Jacksonville NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Jacksonville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10876253 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new treatment approach for patients with recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer by combining a vaccine that induces Th17 immune responses with pembrolizumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor. The study aims to enhance the body's immune response against cancer cells, potentially improving treatment outcomes. Patients will receive the vaccine to stimulate their immune system, followed by pembrolizumab to help maintain that immune response. The research will assess how well this combination works and its safety in patients who have not responded well to previous treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer who have previously undergone treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage ovarian cancer or those who have not been diagnosed with ovarian cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options and outcomes for patients with recurrent ovarian cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using immune checkpoint inhibitors in combination with vaccines, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Jacksonville, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.