NCT04744116 · M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Addition of Cord Blood Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells to Ruxolitinib for the Treatment of Steroid-Refractory Acute Graft Versus Host Disease
What this study is about
This early phase I trial is to find out the effect of adding cord blood tissue-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (cb-MSCs) to ruxolitinib in treating patients with acute graft versus host disease that does not respond to steroid therapy (steroid-refractory). Ruxolitinib may stop the growth of cancer cells by blocking some of the enzymes needed for cell growth.
View original scientific description
This early phase I trial is to find out the effect of adding cord blood tissue-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (cb-MSCs) to ruxolitinib in treating patients with acute graft versus host disease that does not respond to steroid therapy (steroid-refractory). Ruxolitinib may stop the growth of cancer cells by blocking some of the enzymes needed for cell growth. cb-MSCs are a type of tissue helper cell that can be removed from donated umbilical cord blood tissue and grown into many different cell types that can be used to treat cancer and other disease, such as graft versus host disease. This trial aims to learn if adding cb-MSCs to ruxolitinib may help control steroid-refractory acute graft versus host disease.
Interventions
OTHER
Cellular Therapy
Given ds-MSCs IV
DRUG
Ruxolitinib
Given PO
Primary outcome measures
Death from any cause
Time frame: Within 28 days from the start of active study treatment
Response
Time frame: At day 28 from start of therapy on study
Will compare the patient's 28-day graft versus host disease (GVHD) status to the patient's baseline GVHD status when steroid refractory acute GVHD was diagnosed.
Incidence of adverse events
Time frame: Within 28 days from the start of active study treatment
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
- Participants between the ages of 12 years and 80 years (inclusive).
- Steroid refractory grades II-IV acute GVHD of the Lower GI tract or Liver (including those developing these manifestations after previous acute GVHD of skin) secondary to allogeneic HCT or donor lymphocyte infusion. (Grading, see Appendix I) GVHD with: No improvement after treatment with methylprednisolone at ≥ 2.0 mg/kg/day or equivalent for minimum 7 days, or progressive symptoms after minimum 3 days, or a flare in acute GVHD while on systemic steroids. Participants must have had a biopsy that suggests GVHD; a repeat biopsy to enroll on the study is not necessary.
- Karnofsky/Lansky Performance score of at least 30 at the time of study entry.
- Participants who are women of childbearing potential, must be non-pregnant, not breast-feeding, and use adequate contraception. Male patients must use adequate contraception
- Participants (or legal representative where appropriate) must be capable of providing written informed consent, and assent if indicated.
Exclusion criteria
- De novo chronic GVHD
- Isolated acute GVHD of skin
- Secondary systemic therapy for acute GVHD ruxolitinib greater than 96 hours before initiation of therapy.
- Primary treatment with agents other than alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) glucocorticoids and ruxolitinib.
- Participants with uncontrolled infections will be excluded. Infections are considered controlled if appropriate therapy has been instituted and, at the time of enrollment, no signs of progression are present. Progression of infection is defined as hemodynamic instability attributable to sepsis, new symptoms, worsening physical signs or radiographic findings attributable to infection. Persisting fever without other signs or symptoms will not be interpreted as progressing infection.
- Adult and pediatric patients with cognitive impairments and/or any serious unstable pre-existing medical condition or psychiatric disorder that can interfere with safety or with obtaining informed consent or compliance with study procedures.
- Participants with significant supplemental oxygen requirement defined as \>6 L oxygen by nasal cannula.
- Participants with known allergy to bovine or porcine products.
Where
- Houston, Texas
Collaborators
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
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 Aug 18, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations