Characterizing immune responses in melanoma patients
Characterization of the Melanoma-Specific Immune Response
This study is trying to learn more about how the immune system responds to melanoma by looking at blood samples from melanoma patients and healthy volunteers before they start chemotherapy.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of California, Davis Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy |
| Locations | 1 site (Sacramento, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT00368615 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to characterize and expand T cells that are specific to melanoma-derived antigens. Blood samples will be collected from 20 volunteers diagnosed with melanoma and 10 age-matched controls, with a maximum of two blood draws required. The study will analyze the patients' HLA haplotypes and generate melanoma-specific T cell clones for in-vitro testing against melanoma cell lines and differentiation antigens. The goal is to better understand the immune response to melanoma prior to chemotherapy treatment.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals with a biopsy-proven diagnosis of malignant melanoma.
Not a fit: Patients currently taking immunosuppressive medications may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the understanding of melanoma-specific immune responses, potentially leading to improved immunotherapies for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in characterizing immune responses in melanoma, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Biopsy diagnosis of malignant melanoma * Have had a biopsy diagnosis of malignant melanoma in the past Exclusion Criteria: * Patients taking immunosuppressive medications
Where this trial is running
Sacramento, California
- University of California, Davis Department of Dermatology — Sacramento, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Emanual Maverakis, M.D. — University of California, Davis
- Study coordinator: Emanual Maverakis, M.D.
- Email: emaverakis@ucdavis.edu
- Phone: 916-734-1267
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.