Investigating the effects of itraconazole on esophageal cancer treatment outcomes.
A Phase II Trial to Evaluate the Effect of Itraconazole on Pathologic Complete Response Rates in Resectable Esophageal Cancer
This study is looking at how the antifungal medicine itraconazole might help veterans with localized esophageal cancer who are getting chemotherapy and surgery, by potentially improving their chances of a complete response to treatment and better survival.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11073022 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on patients with localized esophageal cancer, particularly veterans, who are undergoing chemoradiation and surgery. It aims to evaluate the impact of itraconazole, an antifungal medication, on improving the rates of pathologic complete response, which is a significant indicator of better survival outcomes. Patients will receive itraconazole for eight weeks during their treatment regimen, with the goal of inhibiting specific signaling pathways that may contribute to treatment resistance. The study builds on previous findings that suggest itraconazole can effectively target these pathways.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans diagnosed with resectable esophageal cancer who are scheduled to undergo chemoradiation and surgery.
Not a fit: Patients with metastatic esophageal cancer or those not eligible for surgery may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve survival rates for patients with localized esophageal cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with itraconazole in inhibiting cancer cell growth, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- Veterans Health Administration — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, David H — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Wang, David H
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.