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Durvalumab, an Anti-PDLI Antibody, Tremelimumab, an Anti-CTLA4 Antibody, and Chemoradiation before Surgery for Esophageal Cancer

Trial Status: closed to accrual

This phase Ib/II trial studies the side effects of durvalumab when given together with chemotherapy and radiation therapy in treating patients with esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer. Both durvalumab and tremelimumab are antibodies (proteins) which bind to cells involved in the immune system. Antibodies are normally made by the body to destroy germs, like bacteria and viruses. The antibodies in this study are designed to boost the body’s immune system, by allowing immune cells to be more active and fight the cancer. Durvalumab works by interacting with an immune molecule called PD-L1, located on the tumor cells and white blood cells. Tremelimumab works by interacting with an immune molecule called CTLA-4, located on white blood cells. Both durvalumab and tremelimumab may help strengthen the immune system. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as fluorouracil, leucovorin calcium, oxaliplatin, carboplatin and paclitaxel, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells, by stopping them from dividing, or by stopping them from spreading. Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill tumor cells and shrink tumors. Giving durvalumab together with chemotherapy and radiation therapy before surgery may work better at treating patients with esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer.