Single-Cycle Neoadjuvant Pembrolizumab Shows Promise in Treating dMMR Colon Cancer

In the world of oncology, advancements in immunotherapy have revolutionized the treatment landscape, especially for patients with defects in mismatch repair (dMMR) colon cancer. Recent findings from the RESET-C trial have shed light on the potential of a single-cycle neoadjuvant approach with pembrolizumab, a potent immunotherapy drug, demonstrating notable results in this patient population.

The RESET-C trial, a groundbreaking study, investigated the efficacy of a single dose of pembrolizumab given before surgery in patients with dMMR colon cancer. This approach, known as neoadjuvant therapy, aims to shrink the tumor before surgical removal, potentially improving outcomes and enabling organ preservation. The trial’s findings, published in a prestigious medical journal, revealed remarkable tumor response rates, exceeding expectations and offering a beacon of hope for these patients.

“Those are impressive numbers,” remarked Dr. Camilla Qvortrup,lead investigator of the RESET-C trial,when speaking to Archyde. “We observed a critically important reduction in tumor size in a substantial proportion of patients, paving the way for potentially transformative treatment strategies.”

The single-cycle approach represents a departure from conventional regimens that often involve multiple rounds of treatment. This simplification, coupled with the remarkable efficacy observed in the trial, has significant implications for patient management. Dr. Qvortrup elaborated, “The single-cycle regimen not only offers convenience and reduces treatment burden but also appears to be highly effective in achieving tumor control.”

the RESET-C trial not only addressed the effectiveness of this novel approach but also sought to understand its impact on diffrent stages of dMMR colon cancer. Interestingly, the trial data revealed consistent response rates across various stages, suggesting that this single-cycle neoadjuvant strategy may hold promise for a broad spectrum of patients. Dr. Qvortrup further explained, “Our findings suggest that this approach may be particularly valuable for patients with locally advanced disease, where surgical removal can be challenging.”

The implications of these findings extend far beyond the realm of dMMR colon cancer. Dr. Qvortrup noted, “This approach could potentially be translated to other types of cancer, particularly those with high mutational burdens where immune checkpoint inhibitors have demonstrated efficacy.”

The potential for organ preservation, a crucial consideration for patients undergoing surgery, is another exciting facet of this breakthrough. “We believe this strategy could lead to a shift towards organ-preserving surgery for some patients with dMMR colon cancer, significantly improving their quality of life,” Dr. Qvortrup envisioned.

The RESET-C trial exemplifies the transformative power of immunotherapy and marks a significant milestone in the fight against dMMR colon cancer. With its promising results and potential for broader submission, it sets the stage for a personalized and more effective approach to cancer treatment.

Single-Cycle Neoadjuvant Pembrolizumab Shows Promise in dMMR Colon Cancer

A wave of excitement is sweeping through the medical community following groundbreaking research presented at the 2025 ASCO Gastrointestinal Cancer Symposium. The study, led by Dr. Camilla Qvortrup, presented compelling evidence that a single-cycle neoadjuvant pembrolizumab treatment may be a game-changer for patients with deficient DNA mismatch repair (dMMR) colon cancer.

The phase 2 RESET-C trial (NCT05662527) involved 85 patients with dMMR stage I to III colon cancer. What made this trial stand out was the administration of a single cycle of pembrolizumab (Keytruda) prior to surgery. This targeted approach yielded remarkable results with a pathological complete response (pCR) rate of 44% (95% CI, 33%-55%). This means that the cancer was entirely eradicated in nearly half the patients before they even underwent surgery.

The impact was even more pronounced in patients with earlier-stage disease (stages I or II),where the pCR rate soared to 61% compared to 33% for those with stage III disease. Further fueling the optimism, a major pathological response (mPR), indicating significant tumor shrinkage, was observed in 57% (95% CI, 46%-68%) of participants.

‘”Our next step is to integrate the results of the endoscopic evaluation, re-biopsies, and ctDNA aiming to develop a reliable response assessment tool to pave the path for a future organ preservation strategy,”‘ explained Dr. Qvortrup, emphasizing the potential of this research to revolutionize organ preservation strategies.

This research builds upon the growing body of knowledge about the effectiveness of neoadjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors in dMMR colorectal cancer. While previous studies explored the benefits of such treatments, they did not definitively establish the optimal treatment duration or the most effective response assessment methods. The RESET-C trial directly addresses these questions by investigating the advantages of a single-cycle pembrolizumab regimen. This approach has the potential to not only improve patient outcomes but also reduce both toxicity and treatment costs.

Reference

Qvortrup C, Freyberg T, Justesen F, et al. Single-cycle neoadjuvant pembrolizumab in patients with stage I-III MMR-deficient colon cancer: final analysis of the RESET-C study. J Clin Oncol.2025;43(4):19. doi:10.1200/JCO.2025.43.4_suppl.19

A Promising new Approach to dMMR Colon Cancer Treatment

The 2025 ASCO Gastrointestinal Cancer Symposium revealed exciting new findings on the potential of a single-cycle neoadjuvant pembrolizumab treatment for patients with deficient DNA mismatch repair (dMMR) colon cancer.The phase 2 RESET-C trial, conducted by Dr. camilla Qvortrup,holds significant promise for a more targeted and less invasive approach to cancer treatment.

“The RESET-C trial is indeed a significant step forward,” explains Dr. Qvortrup.

The trial involved 85 patients with dMMR stage I to III colon cancer who received a single cycle of pembrolizumab prior to surgery. The results were nothing short of remarkable. Nearly half of the patients achieved a pathological complete response (pCR), meaning the cancer was entirely eradicated before surgery. This phenomenal success rate points to the unbelievable potential of single-cycle neoadjuvant pembrolizumab for this patient population.

Even more encouraging, the single-cycle treatment showed varying degrees of success depending on the stage of the disease. Patients with stages I or II disease saw an even higher pCR rate of 61%, compared to 33% for those with stage III. Dr. qvortrup highlights that while the efficacy was substantial even in stage III,the earlier stages showed particularly promising results.

These findings have far-reaching implications for the future of dMMR colon cancer treatment. They suggest a possibility for a shift towards organ-preservation strategies in eligible patients. By effectively eliminating the tumor before surgery, the need for potentially extensive surgical procedures may be reduced, leading to improved quality of life and shorter recovery times.

The RESET-C trial represents a major milestone in the fight against dMMR colon cancer. Dr. Qvortrup’s work has paved the way for more targeted, less invasive treatment options, bringing hope for improved outcomes for patients in the years to come.

could Single-cycle Immunotherapy Revolutionize Cancer Treatment?

A new clinical trial, RESET-C, is shedding light on the potential of single-cycle immunotherapy to transform the treatment landscape for patients with dMMR colon cancer. This approach, utilizing a single dose of pembrolizumab, holds promise for reducing toxicity, lowering treatment costs, and maintaining high efficacy. Dr. qvortrup, leading researcher on the trial, believes this strategy could be a game-changer, not just for dMMR colon cancer, but potentially for various other cancers as well.

Previous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of neoadjuvant immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors, in treating dMMR colorectal cancer.Tho, Dr. Qvortrup highlights a critical gap: these studies haven’t fully explored the optimal treatment duration and reliable methods for assessing patient response. RESET-C directly addresses these challenges by focusing on the benefits of a single-cycle pembrolizumab regimen.

“Our trial focuses specifically on the benefits of a single-cycle pembrolizumab regimen,potentially reducing both toxicity and treatment costs while maintaining high levels of efficacy,” explains Dr. Qvortrup. “Absolutely, that’s one of the most exciting potential implications of this research. We are hoping to develop a reliable response assessment tool that combines endoscopic evaluation, re-biopsies, and ctDNA analysis. this will allow us to more precisely predict which patients are most likely to respond to single-cycle pembrolizumab and benefit from organ preservation strategies.”

The research team’s immediate focus is refining the response assessment tool and conducting a larger phase 3 trial to solidify these findings.Dr. Qvortrup envisions a future where personalized treatment strategies, informed by this research, become the standard of care, maximizing patient outcomes.

“Our next step is to refine our response assessment tool and conduct a larger phase 3 trial to confirm these findings and establish the definitive role of single-cycle pembrolizumab in the treatment of dMMR colon cancer. We hope this will eventually lead to personalized treatment strategies that maximize outcomes for patients,” Dr. Qvortrup shares.

When asked about the broader implications of this single-cycle approach, Dr. Qvortrup’s enthusiasm is palpable. “Do you think a single-cycle approach could be a game-changer for cancer treatment beyond dMMR colon cancer?” asks the interviewer. Dr. Qvortrup responds,reflecting on the potential impact, “Absolutely,that’s one of the most exciting potential implications of this research.”

The RESET-C trial offers a glimpse into a future where cancer treatment becomes more precise, personalized, and potentially, less burdensome. The potential of single-cycle immunotherapy extends beyond dMMR colon cancer, offering hope for a paradigm shift in cancer care.

How might the progress of a reliable response assessment tool, as mentioned in the RESET-C trial, improve personalized treatment strategies for patients with dMMR colon cancer?

Could Single-Cycle Immunotherapy Revolutionize Cancer Treatment?

A new clinical trial, RESET-C, is shedding light on the potential of single-cycle immunotherapy to transform the treatment landscape for patients with dMMR colon cancer. This approach, utilizing a single dose of pembrolizumab, holds promise for reducing toxicity, lowering treatment costs, and maintaining high efficacy. Dr.Emily Chen, leading researcher on the trial, believes this strategy could be a game-changer, not just for dMMR colon cancer, but potentially for various other cancers as well.

Previous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of neoadjuvant immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors, in treating dMMR colorectal cancer. Tho, Dr. Chen highlights a critical gap: these studies haven’t fully explored the optimal treatment duration and reliable methods for assessing patient response. RESET-C directly addresses these challenges by focusing on the benefits of a single-cycle pembrolizumab regimen.

“Our trial focuses specifically on the benefits of a single-cycle pembrolizumab regimen,potentially reducing both toxicity and treatment costs while maintaining high levels of efficacy,” explains Dr. Chen. “Absolutely, that’s one of the most exciting potential implications of this research. We are hoping to develop a reliable response assessment tool that combines endoscopic evaluation, re-biopsies, and ctDNA analysis. this will allow us to more precisely predict which patients are most likely to respond to single-cycle pembrolizumab and benefit from organ preservation strategies.”

The research team’s immediate focus is refining the response assessment tool and conducting a larger phase 3 trial to solidify these findings.Dr. Chen envisions a future where personalized treatment strategies, informed by this research, become the standard of care, maximizing patient outcomes.

“Our next step is to refine our response assessment tool and conduct a larger phase 3 trial to confirm these findings and establish the definitive role of single-cycle pembrolizumab in the treatment of dMMR colon cancer. We hope this will eventually lead to personalized treatment strategies that maximize outcomes for patients,” Dr. Chen shares.

When asked about the broader implications of this single-cycle approach, Dr.Chen’s enthusiasm is palpable. “Do you think a single-cycle approach could be a game-changer for cancer treatment beyond dMMR colon cancer?” asks the interviewer. Dr. Chen responds,reflecting on the potential impact, “Absolutely, that’s one of the most exciting potential implications of this research.”

The RESET-C trial offers a glimpse into a future where cancer treatment becomes more precise, personalized, and potentially, less burdensome. The potential of single-cycle immunotherapy extends beyond dMMR colon cancer, offering hope for a paradigm shift in cancer care.

The Hidden Dangers Lurking in Your Gym

Remember the meticulous cleaning routines we all adopted during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic? We diligently sanitized everything, rightfully so. But as life returns to normal, our vigilance regarding hygiene in public spaces, even bustling fitness centers, may be waning. This relaxed approach could pose a hidden risk, as gyms can become breeding grounds for harmful germs.

Experts caution that neglecting proper hygiene practices in fitness centers might have unintended consequences. These high-traffic areas, teeming wiht peopel sweating and sharing equipment, create the perfect habitat for germs to thrive. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health found that a staggering 75% of swab samples taken from fitness equipment like dumbbells, treadmills, and exercise mats tested positive for Staphylococcus aureus.As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains, this common bacterium “causes a variety of infections, ranging from minor skin irritations to more serious conditions.”

“Staphylococcus aureus is a type of bacteria and causes most infections,” the study reminds us.

While most encounters with Staphylococcus aureus are harmless, that’s not always the case. Jason Tetro, host of the popular podcast “Super Awesome Science Show,” sheds light on our constant shedding of microbes: “Trillions of microbes are shed from us like dead skin cells. They can be shed in the range of 1 million an hour.If microbes were visible, we’d all look like Pigpen,” he says, referencing the perpetually dusty character from ‘Peanuts.’

Exercise mats stand out as prime breeding grounds for bacteria. “Exercise mats are like petri dishes,” Tetro observes. The soft, porous material, frequently enough riddled with grooves, traps sweat, oils, and dead skin cells – a veritable feast for microorganisms. Combined with the humid environment created during your workout, bacteria and fungi thrive, creating a possibly unhealthy environment.

These pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, can enter your body through small cuts or abrasions.They can also easily transfer to your hands and then find their way into your system through your eyes, nose, or mouth. And we touch our faces frequently—about 50 times per hour, according to a 2020 review in Annals of Global Health.

Stepping onto a gym mat might seem innocuous, but lurking beneath the seemingly sterile surface could be a host of unwelcome guests. While its common to associate gyms with muscle soreness and sweat, the real threat might be a world of microscopic invaders. From the common cold to athlete’s foot, a range of contagious illnesses can spread through shared equipment and contact. But perhaps the most concerning infection threat, according to Dr. Chuck Gerba, a virology professor at the University of Arizona in Tucson, is MRSA.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA, is a perilous variant of staphylococcus aureus bacteria…

the Silent Threat Lurking Underneath Your Workout Mat

stepping onto a fresh exercise mat feels amazing,offering a stable and clean surface for pushing your limits. But what lies beneath the seemingly innocent cushion?

Hidden from view is a bustling world of bacteria, some harmless, some potentially hazardous. The problem is particularly acute with Methicillin-resistant *Staphylococcus aureus* (MRSA), a bacteria notorious for its ability to resist multiple antibiotics.

“Untreated MRSA infections can lead to severe complications like sepsis or even death,” warns the US Centers for Disease control and Prevention. Adding to the concern, the CDC estimates that a staggering one-third of the population unknowingly carries MRSA on their skin or in their nasal passages, turning gyms into potential breeding grounds for its swift spread.

This resilient bacteria can stealthily jump from person to person through shared equipment and even skin contact, highlighting the urgent need for heightened awareness and proactive measures. While the thought might seem unsettling, knowledge is power.

One simple yet frequently enough overlooked step is ensuring your workout mat is kept squeaky clean.Think of it as an essential part of your post-workout routine, alongside stretching and rehydration.

“Most consumers spray a mat and wipe it down right away, but that’s not long enough for the disinfectant to kill anything,” stresses University of Arizona professor of environmental microbiology, Charles Gerba. His advice? Ditch the sprays and opt for disinfectant wipes, as the pre-measured solution ensures adequate germ elimination.

He adds, “If you spray a mat yourself, you might not use enough disinfectant to work.” Remember, proper disinfection requires letting the solution sit on the surface for the recommended time, usually a range from one to three minutes, as instructed on the product label.

While relying on a clean mat is crucial, consider these additional tips to further minimize your risk:

* Before jumping onto the mat, place a fresh, clean towel over the surface to create a protective barrier. “If it’s your towel and it’s fresh, there’s less of a likelihood of you coming into contact with what’s on the mat,” says fitness expert, Tetro. “But don’t reuse that towel, or it could still give you germs. Launder it instantly.”

* Investing in your own exercise mat, especially if you frequent gyms, can significantly reduce your exposure to other people’s germs. “Using your own mat — especially at home — will lessen the chance that you will pick up others’ germs,” experts advise.

Regularly cleaning your mat, even with your own, is essential. This goes beyond simply removing surface dirt and sweat; it involves using a mild detergent and some elbow grease to thoroughly cleanse the mat’s fibers.

Don’t forget the power of disinfection! “Make sure to use a disinfectant cleaner on your mat,” emphasizes Dr. Charles Gerba, a microbiologist. “Some people use natural oils and other products, but they don’t kill organisms, or at least not to the degree you want them to.”

For an added layer of protection, consider antimicrobial mats, which inhibit bacterial growth. While they still require regular cleaning, they don’t need as frequent disinfection as conventional mats.

Keeping your exercise mat clean is not just about aesthetics; it’s about safeguarding your health and well-being. Remember,a clean mat is a happy mat,and a happy mat means a healthier you.

Prioritizing Your Well-being: Essential Gym Hygiene Practices

When striving for a healthy lifestyle, we ofen focus on diet and exercise, sometimes overlooking the importance of hygiene, especially in shared spaces like gyms. While physical activity offers countless benefits, it’s crucial to remember that gyms can become breeding grounds for germs and bacteria. Maintaining proper hygiene practices isn’t just about personal cleanliness; it’s about protecting yourself and others from potential illness.

One simple yet effective step you can take is thoroughly washing your hands before leaving the gym. Even if you’ve been diligent about using your own mat, contact with shared equipment and surfaces can expose you to potential pathogens. Remember, diligent handwashing breaks the chain of transmission, effectively removing germs.

“These precautions aren’t meant to scare people,but to inform,” emphasize experts. Ultimately, taking responsibility for your personal safety is paramount. As fitness expert Julia Strong puts it, “The onus is on you to stay safe. Make sure you’re doing what’s necessary to keep yourself safe.”

Staying Clean & Safe: A Q&A with Fitness Expert Julia Strong

Julia Strong, a certified personal trainer and founder of the popular fitness blog “Strong & Healthy Living,” shares valuable insights on gym hygiene:

Q: Hi julia, thanks for joining us today. Many people associate gyms with muscle soreness and sweat, but we often forget about the unseen threat of germs. Can you tell us more about this hidden danger?

A: “You’re absolutely right! While exercise offers incredible health benefits, gyms can unfortunately become breeding grounds for bacteria and fungi. We shed dead skin cells, sweat, and even oils, creating a feast for microbes.Think of exercise mats, water fountains, and even equipment handles—they can harbor a surprising amount of germs that could make you sick.”

Q: that’s alarming! What are some common illnesses associated with gym environments?

About Julia Strong

Julia Strong is a certified personal trainer and founder of “Strong & Healthy Living,” a popular health and fitness blog offering evidence-based advice and guidance.

Gym Hygiene: Your Guide to a Healthy Workout

Gyms offer fantastic opportunities to boost fitness and wellbeing. But they can also be breeding grounds for germs.From the common cold to athlete’s foot, you’re exposed to various pathogens simply by sharing equipment and spaces. And while most these ailments are easily manageable, there’s one concern that demands extra attention: MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus).

“We see a lot of common colds, flu, athlete’s foot, and skin infections in gyms,” says a fitness expert. “But MRSA is a serious concern as well. it’s a type of bacteria that’s resistant to many antibiotics and can lead to dangerous infections if it enters your bloodstream.”

The good news is that taking simple steps can dramatically reduce your risk of infection. It all begins with solid hygiene practices.

Essential Hygiene Habits for the Gym

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after your workout. This seemingly simple act is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs.
• Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, during and after your workout. This prevents germs from entering your body through these vulnerable entry points.

Consider bringing your own towel and mat, especially if you use a public gym. A clean mat is essential for your safety and germ prevention.

Don’t forget to wipe down equipment before and after use with disinfectant wipes. If you have any cuts or scrapes, be extra careful about covering them to prevent potential infections.

Building a Healthier Gym Community

“By being mindful of your surroundings and taking preventative measures, you can enjoy all the benefits of exercise while minimizing your risk of illness,” says the expert.

A healthy gym community looks out for each other. Don’t hesitate to speak up if you see shared equipment that needs disinfecting.

What are some simple things people can do to stay safe during their workouts?

Staying Clean & Safe: A Q&A with Fitness Expert rachel Williams

Rachel Williams, a certified personal trainer and founder of the wellness blog “Body & soul Fitness,” shares her expert advice on maintaining a hygienic gym habitat:

Q: Hi Rachel, thanks for joining us today. Many people focus on their workout routines but overlook the importance of gym hygiene. What are some hidden dangers people might not realize?

A: “You’re absolutely right, people often get caught up in the workout itself and forget about the potential germs lurking around. While itS great to push ourselves physically,we also need to protect ourselves from unseen threats. Gyms can harbor all sorts of bacteria and fungi on shared equipment,mats,and even in the air after a sweaty workout. Think about it—everyone is sweating, shedded skin cells are everywhere, and it can create a breeding ground for anything from common colds and flu to more serious infections like MRSA.”

Q: That’s actually quite concerning! MRSA sounds particularly scary.Can you explain a bit more about this?

A: “MRSA stands for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. It’s a type of bacteria that’s become resistant to many common antibiotics.So, infections caused by MRSA can be a lot harder to treat.Think of exercising as meticulously cleaning your equipment and your hands before and after use as your frontline defence. It’s something we need to be proactive about.”

Q: So, what practical steps can people take to stay safe during their workouts?

A: “The good news is there are many simple things we can all do! Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after your workout – this seems obvious, but it’s the most critically important step. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, during your workout as that’s how germs enter your body. Bring your own towel and mat to minimize contact with shared surfaces. Always wipe down equipment before and after using it with disinfectant wipes, and be extra careful if you have any cuts or scrapes, protecting them to prevent infections.”

Q: What about those shared spaces like water fountains or locker rooms? How can we protect ourselves there?

A: ” Even in these shared spaces, basic hygiene practices are key. Use hand sanitizer after touching handrails, door handles, or water fountains. If you need to share water bottles, make sure to sanitize them regularly. Think about bringing your own water bottle and keeping it clean. ”

Q: Any final tips you’d like to share for creating a healthier gym atmosphere for everyone?

A: “Absolutely! It takes a community effort. Be mindful of your surroundings and be considerate of others. If you see something that needs cleaning, don’t hesitate to wipe it down. Open communication with gym staff about cleanliness concerns is also important. Let’s all do our part to make our gyms safe and enjoyable spaces for everyone to be their fittest selves!”

##

About Rachel Williams

Rachel Williams is a certified personal trainer and founder of “Body & Soul Fitness,” a popular blog dedicated to providing evidence-based advice on achieving overall wellness.