Research projects
We support two types of projects: projects aimed at generating data for the expansion of the database, and projects that focus on research into tumor types and genetic characteristics to improve the (targeted) treatment of patients. We always work closely with relevant expert stakeholders and research partners to achieve the maximum synergy between expertise and interests.
GENAYA
The GENAYA project uses the latest techniques to reveal the complete DNA of the tumors of 1,000 patients aged between 18 and 39. This allows treatments to be tailored to the specific tumor characteristics of each patient. The genetic information and treatment data are stored in the Hartwig Medical Database (with the patient’s consent) and made available for scientific research.
This age group is known as the AYAs: Adolescents and Young Adults. GENAYA stands for ‘A national database of GENome data of Adolescent and Young Adult cancers’. The project builds on the COMPRAYA infrastructure that is funded by the Dutch Cancer Society.
Partners: grants from the Dutch Cancer Society; in collaboration with the COMPRAYA consortium and academic medical centers
Project duration: 2022-2026
Number of patients: 1,000
DRUP
The DRUP study (Drug Rediscovery Protocol) is a clinical trial for patients with advanced or metastatic cancer for whom no standard treatment is available. In the DRUP study, we are investigating whether a targeted therapy designed for other cancer types, but with the same cancer cell characteristics, could be effective for these patients. A survey revealed that one third of the patients treated in the DRUP study benefited from the drug they received as part of the trial.
Partners: NKI/AvL and 35 participating hospitals
Project duration: launched in 2016
Number of patients: as of June 13, there were 3,149 submissions, and 56% of them started treatment in the DRUP trial, still growing, dependent on subcohort studies.
ACTIN
For patients with metastatic cancer, multiple systemic treatment options may be available at a certain moment in time. In treatment decision making, the oncologist and patient discuss the treatment options including a prediction of expected treatment benefit for the specific patient, and weigh the benefit against potential negative side-effects.
Within ACTIN (Algorithmic Cancer Treatment Initiative), the aim is to develop a system to support oncologists and patients in treatment decision making.
Partners: Erasmus MC, NKI-AvL, UMC Utrecht
Project launched in summer 2021
OPTIC
OPTIC is the acronym for ‘Organoids to Predict Treatment response In mCRC’. The goal of this research project is to discover whether cultured tumor material (organoids) can be used to predict response to a particular treatment next to Whole genome sequencing.
Partner: this study was established by UMC Utrecht and Hubrecht Organoid Technology and is being conducted by physicians at several hospitals
Project duration: 2022-2023
Number of patients: 150
The fact that the CPCT, together with Hartwig Medical Foundation, has managed to bundle data, knowledge and expertise from almost all Dutch hospitals is unique and now also deserves international attention.