Recently Diagnosed with Rectal Cancer? Learn About the FORTRESS Study
The FORTRESS Study is testing an approach to improve standard treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer. All participants receive active care at leading cancer centers.
About the FORTRESS Study
The FORTRESS Study combines the cancer-specific immunotherapy NG-350A with chemoradiotherapy in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (stage II-III).
Our Goal
To assess whether NG-350A can improve treatment responses to standard treatment chemoradiotherapy.
Locations
- MD Anderson (Houston, TX)
- Ohio State University (Columbus, OH)
- AdventHealth (Orlando, FL)
Duration
The effect of NG-350A plus chemotherapy and radiotherapy will be assessed during the 12-week active study treatment period.
Why Join the FORTRESS Clinical Trial?
Next-Generation Treatment
Access to investigational immunotherapy alongside standard treatment (chemo + radiation).
Expert Care Team
Extra monitoring and follow-up by experienced study teams at leading cancer centers.
Reimbursement Available for Travel Costs
Travel and related costs may be supported for you and a caregiver to help reduce the financial burden of participation.
Help Future Patients
Opportunity to contribute to medical research that may benefit future patients.
What To Expect: 5 Easy Steps to Take Part
Understanding the clinical trial process from initial screening to long-term follow-up.
1. Learn About the Study
- Patients (or caregivers) can find information about the FORTRESS trial online, through their doctor, or at the study site.
- Review trial details, including purpose, treatment, and available support.
2. Pre-Screening & Eligibility Check
- Answer a short set of questions (age, diagnosis, cancer stage, etc.)
- If pre-eligibility is determined, contact information will be shared with a study site.
- The study site will follow-up to confirm interest and schedule a screening visit.
3. Screening Visit & Informed Consent
- Patient meets with research team at the participating center
- Doctors review the study, risks, benefits, and alternatives in detail
- Patients sign an informed consent form if they choose to participate
- Additional tests (bloodwork, imaging, biopsies) are done to confirm eligibility
4. Treatment Period
- Participants receive standard chemotherapy + radiation, a standard treatment for rectal cancer
- In addition, they receive the investigational therapy (NG-350A) as part of the trial protocol
- Visits to the study site include treatment administration, monitoring, and supportive care
- This phase typically lasts about 12 weeks.
5. Follow Up & Long-Term Monitoring
- While you continue your treatment, up to two follow-up visits are required
- These may include scans, physical exams or lab work to monitor health and tumor response
- Some patients may still elect to undergo surgery depending on treatment results
- Long-term monitoring helps doctors understand safety and effectiveness over time
Reimbursement & Support
Travel and related costs may be supported to help reduce the financial burden of participation.
Learn More About Reimbursement and Support in our FAQsFrequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about clinical trial participation.
Ready to Learn More?
Take the first step towards potentially accessing innovative cancer treatment through the FORTRESS Study.