NCT07634471 · Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
A Clinical Trial of MK-1045 and Rituximab in People With Follicular Lymphoma (MK-1045-007)
What this study is about
Researchers are looking for new ways to treat follicular lymphoma (FL). A standard (usual) treatment for FL includes a targeted therapy called rituximab and chemotherapy. In this study, researchers want to learn if giving a study medicine called MK-1045 and rituximab can treat FL. MK-1045 is a type of treatment called immunotherapy.
View original scientific description
Researchers are looking for new ways to treat follicular lymphoma (FL). A standard (usual) treatment for FL includes a targeted therapy called rituximab and chemotherapy. In this study, researchers want to learn if giving a study medicine called MK-1045 and rituximab can treat FL. MK-1045 is a type of treatment called immunotherapy.
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
- Has biopsy-proven, previously untreated, histologically confirmed cluster of differentiation (CD)19-positive and CD20-positive classical follicular lymphoma (FL), with Ann Arbor Stage II-IV disease and a Follicular Lymphoma International Prognostic Index (FLIPI) score of 2-5.
- Has radiographically measurable disease per the Lugano Response Criteria.
- Has provided a newly obtained core or excisional biopsy or archival tissue of a tumor lesion not previously irradiated.
- If human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive, has well-controlled HIV on antiretroviral therapy (ART).
- If hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-positive, has undetectable hepatitis B virus (HBV) viral load and has received HBV antiviral therapy for at least 4 weeks and will continue it.
- If history of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, has undetectable HCV viral load.
Exclusion criteria
- Has received prior systemic anticancer therapy or radiotherapy for FL.
- Has follicular large B-cell lymphoma or any other subtype of FL other than classical FL.
- Has FL that has transformed into a more aggressive type of lymphoma.
- History or presence of clinically relevant central nervous system (CNS) diseases.
- Has history of serious cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.
- Is HIV-infected with a history of Kaposi's sarcoma and/or Multicentric Castleman's Disease.
- Has received a live or live-attenuated vaccine within 30 days before the first dose of study intervention.
- Has a diagnosis of immunodeficiency or is receiving chronic systemic steroid therapy.
- Has a known additional malignancy that is progressing or has required active treatment within the past 3 years.
- Has known active CNS lymphoma or involvement.
- Has an active autoimmune disease that has required systemic treatment in the past 2 years.
- Has active infection requiring systemic therapy.
- Has chronic liver disease, including liver cirrhosis of Child-Pugh class B or C.
- Has not adequately recovered from major surgery or has ongoing surgical complications.
Where
- Nashville, Tennessee
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 Jul 10, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations