NCT05356182 · State University of New York at Buffalo
A Pilot and Feasibility Study of a Dietary Intervention With Low-protein Meals in Cancer Patients Receiving Immunotherapies
What this study is about
The main idea of this study is that a low protein diet may alter the environment surrounding the tumor, enhancing the body's immune response leading to greater anticancer effects of treatment. This study intends to use a low-protein diet as a tool to enhance the immune response generated by immune check point inhibitor treatments.
View original scientific description
The main idea of this study is that a low protein diet may alter the environment surrounding the tumor, enhancing the body's immune response leading to greater anticancer effects of treatment. This study intends to use a low-protein diet as a tool to enhance the immune response generated by immune check point inhibitor treatments.
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
- Histologically documented solid tumor malignancies which is amenable for immunotherapy treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (i.e. PD1, PD-L1, CTLA inhibitors) as single agents or in combination.
- Metastatic disease as evidenced by soft tissue and/or bony metastases on baseline bone scan and/or computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis
- Life expectancy of at least 6 months
- Adults ≥ 18 years of age
- Adequate hematologic, renal, and liver function as evidenced by the following:
- White blood cell (WBC) ≥ 2,500 cells/μL
- Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) ≥ 1,000 cells/μL
- Platelet Count ≥ 100,000 cells/μL
- Hemoglobin (HgB) ≥ 9.0 g/dL
- Creatinine ≤ 2.0 mg/dL
- Total bilirubin ≤ 2 x upper limit of normal (ULN)
- Aspartate aminotransaminase (AST, SGOT) ≤ 2.5 x ULN
- Alanine aminotransaminase (ALT, SGPT) ≤ 2.5 x ULN
Exclusion criteria
- • Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status 2 or higher
- Treatment with any of the following medications or interventions within 28 days of registration:
- Systemic corticosteroids; however, use of inhaled, intranasal, and topical steroids is acceptable.
- High dose calcitriol \[1,25(OH)2VitD\] (i.e., \> 7.0 μg/week)
- A requirement for systemic immunosuppressive therapy for any reason
- Any infection requiring parenteral antibiotic therapy or causing fever (temperature \> 100.5°F or 38.1°C) within 1 week prior to registration
- A known allergy, intolerance, or medical contraindication to receiving the contrast dye required for the protocol-specified CT imaging
- Any medical intervention or other condition which, in the opinion of the Principal Investigator, could compromise adherence with study requirements or otherwise compromise the study's objectives
Where
- Buffalo, New York
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 3, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations