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NCT07075120 · University of Hawaii

Ipilimumab and Nivolumab With SBRT in Locally Advanced Hepatocellular Cancer

What this study is about

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of cancer-related deaths globally, with Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) populations experiencing significantly higher mortality rates compared to other groups in Hawaii.

View original scientific description

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of cancer-related deaths globally, with Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) populations experiencing significantly higher mortality rates compared to other groups in Hawaii. This disparity is influenced by factors such as higher prevalence of chronic hepatitis B, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, limited access to early detection, and delayed diagnoses. NHPI patients are also underrepresented in clinical trials, limiting the relevance of treatment advances for this population. The standard treatment for HCC is surgical resection; however, many NHPI patients present with unresectable disease. Recent advances with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), such as nivolumab and ipilimumab, have shown promise in treating advanced HCC and improving survival in previously untreatable cases. Additionally, stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) has been shown to enhance survival and local control when combined with systemic therapies like ICIs. However, without surgery, outcomes remain suboptimal, with response rates for ICIs alone at 20-30%, and combination ICI-SBRT treatment showing slightly better results but still a high risk of progression. Despite improvements in HCC treatment, significant gaps remain in managing borderline resectable disease, especially in NHPI patients. This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of combining ICIs and SBRT with curative surgery for patients with borderline resectable HCC, focusing on NHPI populations. The study will also explore the use of biomarkers such as cell-free DNA (cfDNA), CD8+ T-cell infiltration, and serum cytokine markers to guide personalized treatment strategies. Preliminary findings suggest that this multimodal approach may improve outcomes and enable surgical resection for patients previously considered inoperable. This study seeks to address the unmet need for effective treatment strategies in borderline resectable HCC and to improve survival outcomes for underserved NHPI populations.

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.

Exclusion criteria

  • Histologically or cytologically confirmed hepatocellular cancer
  • Locally advanced/borderline resectable HCC as defined by:
  • Solitary tumor \>5 cm, OR
  • Unilobar multifocal disease either with \>3 tumors or one tumor \>3 cm, OR
  • Bilobar disease with adequate future liver remnant, still technically resectable, OR
  • High risk disease features (tumor \>3 cm with macrovascular invasion or tumor \>3 cm with AFP\>400).
  • No extrahepatic spread, no nodal disease, no bilateral left and right branch portal vein involvement, no hepatic vein / IVC involvement. Unilateral hepatic vein involvement is not exclusionary.
  • Measurable disease per RECIST 1.1 as determined by the investigator
  • Age ≥ 18 years old on the day of consent
  • ECOG performance status ≤1 (Appendix XX)
  • Adequate organ and marrow function, as defined below. Criteria "a," "b," "c," and "f" cannot be met with transfusions, infusions, or growth factor support administered within 14 days of starting the first dose.
  • Hemoglobin ≥9 g/dL
  • Absolute neutrophil count ≥1000/μL
  • Platelet count ≥90,000/μL
  • Total bilirubin (TBL) \<2.0 mg/dL
  • ASTandALT≤5×ULN
  • Albumin≥2.8g/dL
  • International normalized ratio(INR)≤2xULN
  • Calculated creatinine clearance ≥ 40 mL/minute as determined by Cockcroft-Gault (using actual body weight) or 24-hour urine creatinine clearance
  • Prior systemic therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma
  • Radiotherapy treatment to more than 30% of the bone marrow or with a wide field of radiation within 28 days of the first dose of study drug(s).
  • Ascites that requires ongoing paracentesis, within 6 weeks prior to the first scheduled dose, to control symptoms.
  • Active or prior documented GI variceal bleed or history of upper GI bleeding, ulcers, or esophageal varices with bleeding within 60 days prior to registration; adequate endoscopic therapy according to institutional standards is required for patients with history of esophageal variceal bleeding or assessed as high risk for esophageal variceal by the treating investigator.
  • Hepatic encephalopathy within 12 months of trial registration
  • Patient currently exhibits symptomatic or uncontrolled hypertension defined as diastolic blood pressure \>90 mmHg or systolic blood pressure \>140 mmHg.
  • Prior external beam radiation therapy to the liver, prior yttrium-90 radioembolization
  • HBV viral load \>100 IU/mL, ongoing corticosteroid therapy \>10 mg prednisone daily, and active autoimmune disease requiring systemic therapy in the past 2 years.
  • Direct tumor extension into stomach, duodenum, small or large bowel
  • Active or untreated central nervous system (CNS) and leptomeningeal metastases
  • History of another primary malignancy except for:
  • Malignancy treated with curative intentand with no known active disease ≥ 5years before the first dose of study drug(s) and of low potential risk for recurrence
  • Adequately treated non-melanoma skin cancer or lentigo maligna without evidence of disease
  • Adequately treated carcinoma in situ without evidence of disease
  • Known fibrolamellar HCC, sarcomatoid HCC, or mixed cholangiocarcinoma and HCC.
  • Active infection including tuberculosis (TB) (clinical evaluation that includes clinical history, physical examination and radiographic findings, and TB testing in line with local practice), or human immunodeficiency virus (positive human HIV 1/2 antibodies).

Where

  • Honolulu, Hawaii

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 Apr 30, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations

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1 of 15 participants interested
7% interest

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Study locations

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What participation can include

  • Study-related care provided by the research team
  • Close monitoring by medical professionals
  • Possible compensation for time and travel*
  • The option to withdraw at any time
  • Contributing to medical research that may help future patients

*Compensation varies by study. Confirm details with coordinator.

Typical next steps

  1. 1.Submit this form
  2. 2.Phone screening
  3. 3.In-person assessment if eligible
  4. 4.Begin participation

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Looking for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) Treatment in Honolulu?

Join others in Hawaii exploring innovative treatment options through clinical research

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) Treatment Options in Honolulu, Hawaii

If you're searching for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) treatment in Honolulu, participating in a clinical research study may provide access to innovative approaches under expert medical supervision. This study is actively recruiting participants in Honolulu and surrounding areas.

Clinical trials offer participants the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments while contributing to medical research that may help future patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). All study-related care is provided at no cost to participants.

Local Sites
1 locations in Hawaii
Now Enrolling
Up to 15 participants
Quick Start
Screening available now

Why Consider a Clinical Trial for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)?

Potential Benefits

  • Access to new treatment approaches before public availability
  • Close monitoring by experienced medical professionals
  • Study-related care provided at no cost
  • Contribute to medical research for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)

What to Expect

  • Initial screening to determine eligibility
  • Regular check-ups and monitoring visits
  • Possible compensation for time and travel
  • You can withdraw at any time

Frequently Asked Questions About This Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) Study

Important Clinical Trial Information

This information is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical trial participation involves potential risks and benefits. Eligibility requirements apply and will be assessed during the screening process.

Study identifier: NCT07075120. For complete study details, visit ClinicalTrials.gov. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making decisions about your medical care or participating in clinical research.