NCT05583708 · Weill Medical College of Cornell University
Phase II Study of Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy in Combination With Immunotherapy for Patients With Merkel Cell Cancer
(iPRRT)
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to find out what effects an immunotherapy drug, called pembrolizumab, combined with a radioactive drug, called lutetium Lu 177 dotatate (Lutathera®) have on patients with Merkel cell carcinoma. Pembrolizumab works by helping patient's immune system to fight cancer. Lutathera works by killing cancer cells.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to find out what effects an immunotherapy drug, called pembrolizumab, combined with a radioactive drug, called lutetium Lu 177 dotatate (Lutathera®) have on patients with Merkel cell carcinoma. Pembrolizumab works by helping patient's immune system to fight cancer. Lutathera works by killing cancer cells. Pembrolizumab is approved by the FDA to treat Merkel cell cancer and has caused some Merkel cell cancers to shrink and/or resolve.
Interventions
DRUG
Pembrolizumab
Pembrolizumab 400mg IV
DRUG
Lutetium Lu 177 dotatate
7.4GBq (200 mCi) IV
Primary outcome measures
Objective Response Rate (ORR)
Time frame: 2 years
The objective response rate is the proportion of all subjects with confirmed Partial Response (PR) or Complete Response (CR) according to RECIST 1.1.
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
- Written informed consent and HIPAA authorization for release of personal health information prior to registration. NOTE: HIPAA authorization may be included in the informed consent or obtained separately. 2. Male and female, age ≥ 18 years at the time of consent. 3. ECOG Performance Status of 0-1 within 28 days prior to registration. 4. Histological or cytological evidence of Merkel cell cancer per AJCC, 8th edition. 5. Presence of somatostatin receptors by Ga-68 dotatate (or equivalent) imaging, which is a requirement for PRRT (lutetium Lu 177 dotatate \[Lutathera®\]). Must have at least one measurable lesion per RECIST 1.1. 6. Must have progressed on treatment with an anti-PD-1/L1 mAb administered either as monotherapy or in combination with other checkpoint inhibitors or other therapies. PD-1 treatment progression is defined by meeting all of the following criteria:
- Has received at least 2 doses of an approved anti-PD-1/L1 mAb
- Has demonstrated dise
Where
- Iowa City, Iowa
- New York, New York
- Madison, Wisconsin
Collaborators
Hoosier Cancer Research Network
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 Apr 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations