Hi
I'm planning to go on a phase 2 trial for clear cell ovarian cancer using the immunotherapy drug, Pembrolizumab.I know that Pembrolizumab is licensed for use with other cancers, eg melanoma. I was interested if anyone on Pembrolizumab has used strong probiotic food supplements, eg Symprove, or fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) alongside Pembrolizumab? The reason I'm asking is because of an article on NHS.uk (https://www.nhs.uk/news/cancer/cancer-treatment-response-may-be-affected-microbes-gut/) suggesting that immunotherapy responses may be affected by gut microbes. This was noted in relation to immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting the PD-1 and PD-L1 axis (which I believe Pembrolizumab does). Here's the original study: https://www.nhs.uk/news/cancer/cancer-treatment-response-may-be-affected-microbes-gut/
Thank you
Grace
Hi Grace and welcome to the Online Community, although I am sorry to see you finding us and so sorry to hear that you are on the cancer rollercoaster.
Your questions are very specific but talking with people who are on the same journey can help a lot, so can I direct you to this link to our very supportive Ovarian cancer group as this will open up your concerns to a wider audience who know exactly what you are going through at the moment.
Just follow the link above, hitting ‘Join the Group’ tab just under the main group name, then go to the 'Start a Discussion' tab and set up your own Discussion and introduce yourself to the group - you could just copy an paste what you have in this first post.
You may find our various Macmillan Support Line Services to be helpful - call them on 0808 808 00 00 This free service covers Emotional Support, Practical Information. Clinical Information, Financial Support and Work Guidance mostly open 8.00 to 8.00 but check the link.
We also have our ‘Ask an Expert’. section where you can post questions to our mostly Volunteer Experts but please allow 2 working days to get a reply.
When you feel up to it try putting some information in your profile. This really helps others when answering. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. Just click on YOUR username, select 'Edit Profile'. Put as much or as little in your profile and you can amend it at any time - you can see members profiles by hitting our forum names.
All the very best.
