Combination of targeted radiation and immunotherapy for HPV-related throat cancer

Neoadjuvant Radiation and Evorpacept (ALX148) in Combination With Pembrolizumab In Patients With Previously Untreated Locally Advanced, Resectable, HPVOPC (Human Papilloma Virus Oropharynx Cancer)

PHASE2 · University of California, San Diego · NCT05787639

This study is testing a new treatment that combines targeted radiation with immunotherapy to see if it helps people with early-stage HPV-related throat cancer do better before surgery.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment29 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of California, San Diego (other)
Drugs / interventionsPembrolizumab, radiation, immunotherapy
Locations3 sites (La Jolla, California and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05787639 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of neoadjuvant immunoradiotherapy using evorpacept and pembrolizumab in patients with stage I HPV-related oropharynx cancer. The study employs a multi-center, open-label design and aims to enhance the immune response against tumors by combining targeted radiation with immunotherapy before surgical intervention. By focusing on tumor-targeted radiation while sparing lymphatics, the trial seeks to improve patient outcomes compared to standard treatment protocols.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with histologically confirmed stage I T1-2N1M0 HPV oropharynx cancer who are eligible for surgical resection.

Not a fit: Patients with solitary lymph nodes less than 3 cm may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve treatment responses and outcomes for patients with HPV-related oropharynx cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in combining targeted radiation with immunotherapy, but this specific approach is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Histologically confirmed diagnosis of Stage I T1-2N1M0 HPVOPC (Human Papilloma Virus Oropharynx Cancer)
* Amenable to surgical resection
* Are able to safely receive neoadjuvant radiation and Evorpacept/Pembrolizumab

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with solitary lymph nodes less than 3 cm

Where this trial is running

La Jolla, California and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Oropharynx Cancer

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.