NCT07224971 · Liza Villaruz, MD
Impact of Circadian Rhythm on Immunotherapy
What this study is about
This study aims to determine whether morning versus afternoon treatment impacts effectiveness of (the usual treatment) immunotherapy in a broad patient population. Patients with any type of advanced/metastatic malignancy are eligible to enroll in this study, as long as first-line anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy is on label for their condition.
View original scientific description
This study aims to determine whether morning versus afternoon treatment impacts efficacy of (standard of care) immunotherapy in a broad patient population. Patients with any type of advanced/metastatic malignancy are eligible to enroll in this study, as long as first-line anti-PD-1/PD-L1 immunotherapy is on label for their condition. Participants will then be randomized to either the early treatment group (administration must start and conclude by 11:00 AM +1 hour window) or the late treatment group (administration must start after 12:00 PM).
Interventions
DRUG
Immunotherapy - PD-1 Blocker
Standard of Care Drugs (at investigator's discretion) may include: pembrolizumab, nivolumab, cemiplimab, durvalumab, dostarlimab, avelumab, and atezolizumab, or other immune checkpoint inhibitors used in cancer treatment that targets cancer cells by blocking the PD-1 receptor on T cells.
Primary outcome measures
Real-world progression-free survival (rwPFS) - Cohort A
Time frame: Up to 4.5 years
Time from first dose of 1st line treatment to clinician documented clinical disease progression, initiation of new line of therapy, or death from any cause, whichever comes first. Real-world progression-free survival (rwPFS), defined as the time from first dose of 1st line treatment to clinician documented clinical disease progression, initiation of new line of therapy, or death from any cause, whichever came first. Per RECISIT v1.1, Progressive Disease: ≥20% increase in the sum of diameters of target lesions, taking as reference the smallest sum on study (this includes the baseline sum if that is the smallest on study). The sum must also demonstrate an absolute increase of ≥5 mm. The appearance ≥1 new lesion(s) is considered progression.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Cohort Specific Criteria
- Cohort A: Advanced/metastatic NSCLC patients for which 1st line PD-1/PD-L1 therapy is on-label either alone or in combination.
- Cohort B: Advanced/metastatic NSCLC patients who have completed up to 4 cycles of induction therapy who have stable disease or responsive disease and for which maintenance anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy is on-label either alone or in combination.
- Cohort C: Advanced/metastatic solid tumor malignancy for which first-line anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy is on-label either alone or in combination.
- Prior and concurrent therapy criteria o Patients should be ICI-naïve (this should be first-line therapy) (Cohorts A and C), or should have received ICI induction therapy and are now eligible for ICI maintenance therapy (Cohort B).
- Must be willing to be randomized to complete therapy at assigned time of day, which may be early in the morning OR later in the day/into the evening.
- Must be eligible to receive anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy singly or in combination with other FDA-approved agents according to standard of care practices, as determined by the clinical judgment of the investigator but according to approved label indications
- Must have the ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document.
- Able to read and write in English.
Exclusion criteria
- 1\. Participant unable to receive anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy due to prior allergic reactions to therapy or any therapy ingredients.
Where
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Dec 9, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations