Examining the immune system in hereditary pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma
Official title: HEPHESTOS - Hereditary Pheochromocytoma Assessment of Tumour Immunologies
Run by Radboud University Medical Center · NCT06444607 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing how the immune system works in people with pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma, especially those with a family history of these tumors, to see if it can help us find better treatments.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Radboud University Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Nijmegen, Gelderland) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 1, 2024 |
| Main results expected | June 1, 2029 |
| Study ends | June 1, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | November 21, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT06444607 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults over 18 years with newly diagnosed pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma, or those with genetic mutations predisposing them to these tumors.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with active inflammatory or infectious comorbidities, other malignancies under active treatment, or those using medications that interfere with the immune system may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates the role of the immune system in patients with pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma, focusing on differences between those with hereditary predispositions and those without. The study is divided into two parts: the first part analyzes immune cell composition and response in circulation, while the second part examines immune cell composition within the tumor microenvironment. A total of 80 patients with pheochromocytoma, 80 carriers of germline mutations, and 40 healthy volunteers will be included. The findings aim to enhance understanding of tumor immunology and potentially lead to new immune-targeted therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to the development of new immune system-targeted medications for pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have highlighted the immunogenic nature of pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma, but this specific examination of genetic influences on the immune system is novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Part I: * Newly diagnosed patients with PPGL or newly diagnosed patients with (metastatic) PPGL recurrence. * OR patients with mutations which predispose for the development of PPGL. * Aged \> 18 years. Part II: * Confirmed PPGL on pathology. * Aged \> 18 years. Exclusion Criteria: * Unable to provide informed consent. * Active inflammatory or infectious comorbidities. * Other malignancies which are under active treatment (except for basal cell carcinoma, other in situ carcinomas). * Using medication interfering with the immune system * Pregnancy or breastfeeding * A self-reported alcohol consumption of \>21 units per week
Where it's running
-
Radboudumc
Nijmegen, Gelderland, Netherlands Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Margo Dona, PhD — Radboud University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Kai Xu, M.D.
- Email: kai.xu@radboudumc.nl
- Phone: +316 42385270
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.