Predicting how well chemotherapy will work for esophageal cancer patients

Predicting Postoperative Chemotherapy Efficacy in Patients With Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Biopsy Specimens.

City of Hope Medical Center · NCT06490003

This study is testing if DNA changes in biopsy samples can help doctors predict how well chemotherapy will work for patients with esophageal cancer, so those who might not benefit can avoid unnecessary treatment.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages20 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorCity of Hope Medical Center (other)
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation
Locations1 site (Chūō, Yamanashi)
Trial IDNCT06490003 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study focuses on patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma to develop a predictive model for chemotherapy efficacy based on DNA methylation patterns found in preoperative biopsy specimens. By identifying patients who are unlikely to respond to chemotherapy, the study aims to help them avoid unnecessary treatment and its associated side effects. This could allow for timely adjustments to their treatment plans, potentially improving overall outcomes. The study involves patients who have undergone chemotherapy and aims to analyze their responses over a two-month period.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients with histologically confirmed esophageal squamous cell carcinoma who are receiving initial chemotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients who cannot provide a preoperative biopsy sample or those with multiple cancers may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could help tailor chemotherapy treatments for esophageal cancer patients, improving their chances of receiving effective therapies.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies exploring biomarkers for chemotherapy response, this specific approach using DNA methylation in esophageal cancer is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Patients who had histologically confirmed esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
2. Patients who had undergone chemotherapy.
3. Patients receiving initial chemotherapy
4. Written informed consent following full study information is provided to the patient.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients for whom a preoperative biopsy sample cannot be obtained
2. Patients who cannot assess at 2 months later after chemotherapy.
3. Patients with multiple cancers.

Where this trial is running

Chūō, Yamanashi

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: Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Chemotherapy Effect, DNA Methylation

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.