ANZGOG’s newest study EPOCH opens to recruitment following the activation of its first site, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.
Led by Principal Investigator, Prof Clare Scott AM, the study aims to recruit 90 participants from Australia and around the globe with the initial exploratory Part A of the EPOCH trial recruiting 30 participants across six sites, four in Australia, one in the UK and one in Canada. Part B aims to recruit the remaining 60 participants globally.
Professor Clare Scott AM, Principal Investigator of EPOCH.
What is EPOCH?
EPOCH is an international Phase II that focuses on improving the outcome of tubo-ovarian or uterine carcinosarcoma. EPOCH is designed to test a potentially more effective treatment for specific gynaecological cancers, providing a valuable opportunity for patients who do not have access to such advanced treatment options under normal circumstances.
What does EPOCH aim to achieve?
EPOCH explores the efficacy of two drugs eribulin (Halaven) and pembrolizumab (Keytruda) which are normally not accessible to women diagnosed with ovarian or uterine cancer. The primary objective is to determine the efficacy of eribulin alone and in combination with pembrolizumab in these patients. The pharmaceutical companies behind eribulin and pembrolizumab, EISAI and Merck respectively, have agreed to provide these drugs for this trial.
Who can participate in EPOCH?
The trial may be suitable for women who have been histologically diagnosed with tubo-ovarian or uterine carcinosarcoma and have experienced recurrence or progression after completing at least one, but not more than two chemotherapy treatments. It is highly recommended that patients discuss any concerns and the most appropriate course of action for participating in clinical trials with their oncologist.
Above: Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, the first site that EPOCH will be available to patients.
Where will EPOCH be available?
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, VIC
- Monash Health, VIC
- Prince of Wales Hospital/Royal Hospital for Women, NSW
- Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital, QLD
- Imperial College London, UK
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Canada
Why is this study important?
The purpose of this study is to improve current knowledge and understanding about rare cancers influenced by the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which could potentially transform the way these cancers are clinically treated. EPOCH is among the initial trials conducted by ANZGOG that includes the TR-ANZGOG (Translational ANZGOG) program. This program allows ANZGOG to support both present and future translational research, possibly leading to progress in diagnosis, treatment, and management of gynaecological cancers
Visit ANZGOG's website to learn more about available clinical trials.
