NCT05325632 · H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute
Study of HER2 Directed Dendritic Cell (DC1) Vaccine + Weekly Paclitaxel, Trastuzumab & Pertuzumab
What this study is about
The purpose of the study is to find out if an experimental drug called Dendritic Cell (DC1) vaccine added to standard neoadjuvant (given before main treatment) therapy can help people with HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) positive breast cancer.
View original scientific description
The purpose of the study is to find out if an investigational drug called Dendritic Cell (DC1) vaccine added to standard neoadjuvant (given before main treatment) therapy can help people with HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) positive breast cancer.
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 must have histologically confirmed clinical stage I- III, HER2+ (per ASCO/CAP criteria) invasive carcinoma of the breast. Primary tumor should measure at least 1 cm by clinical exam or radiologic tests
- Candidate for neoadjuvant chemotherapy with Paclitaxel, Trastuzumab, Pertuzumab regimen followed by standard of care local therapy as determined by the treating physician
- Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status 0 or 1
- Participants must have normal organ and marrow function as defined per protocol.
- Cardiac ejection fraction within institutional normal limits by either Multigated Acquisition Scan (MUGA) or Echocardiogram at baseline.
- Women of child-bearing potential and their male partners must agree to use adequate contraception (hormonal or barrier method of birth control; abstinence) prior to study entry and for the duration of study participation. Should a woman become pregnant or suspect she is pregnant while participating in this study, she should inform her treating physician immediately. Sexually active male participants should use a barrier method or exercise abstinence during chemotherapy administration until surgery.
- Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document.
Exclusion criteria
- Participants with inflammatory breast cancer, widespread locally advanced unresectable disease involving the chest wall/nodal basins in which a curative surgical resection cannot be performed, or those in whom de novo metastatic disease is suspected or confirmed.
- Patients may not be receiving any other investigational agents for the treatment of their breast cancer.
- History of allergic reactions attributed to compounds of similar chemical or biologic composition to the study vaccine components and any of the chemotherapy drugs (paclitaxel, trastuzumab, pertuzumab).
- Participants who are unwilling or unable to undergo an apheresis for production of their vaccine.
- Uncontrolled intercurrent illness including, but not limited to, ongoing or active infection, symptomatic congestive heart failure, unstable angina pectoris, cardiac arrhythmia, or psychiatric illness/social situations that would limit compliance with study requirements.
- Pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding.
- Participants with known congenital or acquired immune deficiency (including those patients who require systemic immunosuppressant drugs for autoimmune disease or organ transplant).
Where
- Tampa, Florida
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 Mar 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations