Study Linking Morning Immunotherapy to Improved Lung Cancer Outcomes Faces Scrutiny

A recent study published in Nature Medicine suggesting that the timing of immunotherapy infusions – specifically, administering them in the morning versus the afternoon – could significantly impact outcomes for lung cancer patients is now under investigation due to concerns about data inconsistencies. The initial findings, which indicated a substantial reduction in the risk of disease progression for patients treated in the morning, sparked considerable interest but were met with skepticism by some scientists.

Concerns Raised About Study Integrity

Multiple researchers have identified several issues with the study, prompting Nature Medicine to append a note announcing an investigation into the concerns. These issues include inconsistencies in the trial’s design as registered on clinicaltrials.gov, chronological errors within the submitted trial protocol, and anomalies in the progression-free survival and adverse event data.

What the Study Initially Reported

The study initially reported that lung cancer patients receiving immunotherapy in the morning experienced a marked decrease in the risk of their cancer progressing compared to those treated in the afternoon. This finding suggested a potential, easily implementable strategy to enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy.

Expert Commentary

Angus Chen, a cancer reporter at STAT, has been covering the developments. He reports on cancer research, advances in oncology, and immunotherapy. Chen’s reporting highlights the initial intrigue surrounding the study and the subsequent concerns raised by the scientific community. A WBUR article from June 5, 2025, also featured Chen discussing the implications of immunotherapy, including CAR-T therapy, for difficult-to-treat brain cancers.

Study Authors Respond

The authors of the study have declined to comment directly on the allegations, stating in an email to STAT that they are currently preparing a response to Nature Medicine.

Immunotherapy and CAR-T Therapy

Immunotherapy, including techniques like CAR-T therapy, utilizes the body’s own immune system to fight cancer. CAR-T therapy specifically involves engineering T cells to target and destroy cancer cells. Recent research, as highlighted by the WBUR report, has shown promise in treating glioblastoma, a particularly aggressive form of brain cancer.

About Angus Chen

Angus Chen is an award-winning journalist covering cancer for STAT News. According to his Muck Rack profile, he covers all aspects of cancer, including drugs, policy, science, and equity. He previously worked at NPR and NPR affiliate stations and is a recipient of two Edward R. Murrow awards and the Biedler Prize for Cancer Journalism. His LinkedIn profile further details his experience and accolades.