Predicting treatment response in esophageal cancer using organoids

Chemoradioresistance in Prospectively Isolated Cancer Stem Cells in Esophageal Cancer-Organoid: RARE STEM-Organoid

Observational University Medical Center Groningen · NCT03283527

This study is testing if lab-grown mini tumors from patients with localized esophageal cancer can help doctors predict how well they will respond to treatment before surgery.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Medical Center Groningen Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, radiation
Locations3 sites (Groningen and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT03283527 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to improve treatment outcomes for patients with localized esophageal cancer by developing patient-derived organoid models. These organoids will be used to predict how well patients will respond to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy before surgery. By identifying responders and non-responders, the study seeks to tailor treatment plans, potentially allowing for esophagus-preserving strategies in those who respond well. The approach focuses on understanding cancer stem cell properties that may influence therapy resistance and tumor regrowth.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older with histologically confirmed esophageal adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma who are eligible for curative treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with distant metastases or those who are medically unfit for curative treatment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for esophageal cancer, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of organoids for treatment prediction is an emerging field, similar approaches have shown promise in other cancers, indicating potential for success in this context.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Histologically proven adeno- or squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus
* Age ≥ 18 years
* Candidates for curative treatment; clinical stage T1N+/T2-4aN0-3M0
* Scheduled for endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) procedure for staging and/or treatment purposes
* Written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients who are medically unfit for a curative treatment
* Signs of distant metastases (M1)
* Patients who are mentally disabled or incapable to give informed consent

Where this trial is running

Groningen 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.
Conditions OrganoidEsophageal CancerChemoradiation
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.