RTFCCR funds five new European clinical trials across various cancer types
March 27, 2025
The Rising Tide Foundation for Clinical Cancer Research has recently approved five new grants to advance the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Spanning the development of cancer from precancerous conditions to the treatment of metastatic disease, and led by renowned clinical institutions across Europe, these projects aim to significantly improve patient outcomes and influence global healthcare policies. RTFCCR is proud to have these grants in its portfolio of over 50 active clinical trials spanning all cancer types worldwide.
Multiple myeloma
Screening for monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance: A population-based randomized clinical trial, University of Iceland, Iceland
The iStopMM project by the University of Iceland aims to transform the diagnosis and management of multiple myeloma (MM), a severe blood cancer. MM precedes monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). The study seeks to determine if systematic MGUS screenings can lead to earlier detection, which, coupled with early intervention and personalized monitoring, lead to improved patient survival rates and quality of life. Early detection and treatment of MM could transform the illness into a manageable condition. The study’s findings may influence global healthcare policies, promoting the screening of MGUS worldwide.
Glioblastoma
A chemotherapy regimen with Temozolomide/Lomustine versus Temozolomide alone in patients with newly diagnosed MGMT promotor methylated IDHwt glioblastoma: an international multicenter randomized controlled trial, Sahlgrenska University Hospital and the University of Gothenburg, Sweden
Sahlgrenska University Hospital and the University of Gothenburg are conducting an international multicenter randomized controlled trial to evaluate a chemotherapy regimen for glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain tumor, and in particular for its subtype MGMT promoter methylated IDHwt, which has an even poorer prognosis. The standard post-surgery treatment includes Temozolomide (TMZ) and radiation. This study will assess whether adding Lomustine to TMZ improves survival rates for patients with newly diagnosed MGMT promotor methylated glioblastoma, compared to the standard treatment. This study aims to provide more effective and well-tolerated treatment for glioblastoma, potentially enhancing survival rates and improving the quality of life for patients with this severe disease.
Metastatic prostate cancer
STAMPEDE2: A randomized controlled platform trial testing treatments in metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer SABR, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Switzerland
The Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland is conducting the STAMPEDE2 trial to evaluate treatments for metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer using stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR). Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and the second leading cause of cancer death. Combining androgen deprivation therapy with second-generation hormonal therapy or chemotherapy has improved outcomes for newly diagnosed patients. Adding SABR to standard systemic therapies might improve outcomes for patients with oligometastatic prostate cancer (1 to 5 metastases) compared to standard care alone. This strategy could lead to long-term remission or cure for some patients and may establish a new standard of care for those with limited metastatic lesions.
Recurrent prostate cancer
Terbinafine for biochemically recurrent prostate cancer – A phase II drug-repurposing study, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, Switzerland
The Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen is conducting a phase II study to repurpose Terbinafine, a drug typically used for fungal infections, for treating biochemically recurrent prostate cancer. Standard treatments often have significant side effects, which can significantly decrease the quality of life. This trial investigates if Terbinafine can slow prostate cancer progression without hormone withdrawal. If effective, Terbinafine could delay the need for antihormonal treatments, thereby reducing side effects. This study could also pave the way for further research on Terbinafine in treating advanced prostate and other cancers.
Kidney cancer
CARE1+: First line randomized study platform to optimize treatment in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma, Gustave Roussy, France
Gustave Roussy is conducting the CARE1+ trial to optimize treatment for metastatic renal cell carcinoma. There are two approved treatment strategies: anti-angiogenic targeted therapy (VEGFR TKI) and immunotherapy (ICI). This trial aims to compare overall survival between these two approaches in patients with a biological marker, PDL1, to identify the superior treatment strategy. The main goal is to improve overall survival rates and establish the most effective treatment combination for kidney cancer patients.