Pembrolizumab and Autologous Dendritic Cells for the Treatment of Refractory Colorectal Cancer (CRC)

The phase II trial tests whether pembrolizumab and dendritic cell-based treatment works to shrink tumors in patients with colorectal cancer that does not respond to treatment (refractory). Pembrolizumab, also referred to as an immune checkpoint inhibitor drug, works by targeting molecules that act as a check and balance system for immune responses. Immune checkpoint inhibitor drugs are designed to either "unleash" or "enhance" the cancer immune responses that already exist by either (1) blocking inhibitory molecules or by (2) activating stimulatory molecules. Dendritic cell-based treatment works by boosting the immune system (a system in our bodies that protects us against infection) to recognize and destroy the cancer cells. This investigational treatment targets cancer cells and is made from the patient’s own blood cells. Giving pembrolizumab and dendritic cell-based treatment may help shrink tumors in patients with colorectal cancer.