A new clinical research study is now open at OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute for adults with advanced (Stage 4) non-small cell lung cancer who have not yet received treatment for metastatic disease. The study is evaluating whether adding an investigational immunotherapy, EIK1001, to the current standard of care — pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy — can improve outcomes for patients.

EIK1001 (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT07365319) is a global Phase 2/3 randomized study. The investigational medicine is designed to activate the immune system in a different way by targeting Toll-like receptors 7 and 8. When combined with pembrolizumab (an established immunotherapy) and chemotherapy, researchers are studying whether this approach can help the body’s own defenses better recognize and respond to cancer cells. The trial carefully compares the new combination against the current standard treatment to better understand both its safety and potential benefits.

This research is especially meaningful for patients and our community. Advanced lung cancer continues to present significant challenges, and many people still need more effective first-line options. By participating in carefully designed studies like this one, OSF HealthCare helps bring promising investigational therapies closer to patients while contributing to the broader effort to improve cancer care. Support for clinical research allows us to offer hope and help advance treatment possibilities for future generations.

“At OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute, we are excited to participate in this important Phase 2/3 study, which brings a novel immunotherapy approach to patients in our region facing advanced lung cancer,” said Jun Zhang, MD, PhD, Principal Investigator. “Clinical research like this provides eligible patients the opportunity to explore promising new treatment approaches while helping to advance care for the broader community.”

All treatment approaches in this study are being evaluated for research purposes in accordance with the approved study protocol.

All clinical research conducted at OSF HealthCare undergoes rigorous review and ongoing oversight to help ensure patient safety and ethical conduct.

Patients interested in learning more about clinical research at OSF HealthCare are encouraged to speak with their care team, call (844) 673-4467 or Email: sfmc.clinicaltrials@osfhealthcare.org