Biomarkers for Cancer Treatment
This research is trying to understand how different cancer treatments, such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and newer immunotherapy drugs, affect natural substances in your body called 'biomarkers'. These biomarkers, like tiny genetic instructions (miRNAs) and proteins, can change when you have cancer and during treatment. The study aims to identify these changes by comparing samples taken before and after treatment. They want to see if these changes can tell us more about how well a treatment is working, or if they can predict who might experience side effects like problems with the heart or lungs. Ultimately, this could lead to more personalised and safer cancer care in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When you have cancer, and especially when you receive treatment, your body produces tiny signals called 'biomarkers'. You can think of these as natural messages that can tell us what's happening inside your body. This research project is like a detective story, trying to find and understand these tiny signals.
Researchers are looking at two main types of signals: 'miRNAs' (which are like tiny genetic instructions) and various 'proteins' (which are building blocks of your body). They are studying people receiving different cancer treatments, specifically those having radiotherapy or chemotherapy for cancers in the chest, and others receiving newer immunotherapy treatments. By taking samples before and after treatment, they can see which of these signals change.
The main goal is to find out if these changes can help us in two ways. Firstly, can they show us how well a treatment is working? Secondly, can they predict if someone might have certain side effects, especially problems with their heart or lungs? Understanding these signals better could eventually help doctors choose the best treatment for each person and manage any side effects more effectively.
Key takeaways
- This study looks at how your body responds to cancer treatment.
- It aims to find natural signals (biomarkers) that change during treatment.
- Researchers hope these signals can predict treatment success or side effects.
- Participation involves providing samples before and after your standard treatment.
- The study won't change your medical care or involve new medications.
- Findings could lead to better, more personalised cancer care in the future.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you must be an adult aged 18 or over and have a solid tumour cancer that has been confirmed by tests. You need to be starting your very first treatment for this cancer, which could be either a type of radiotherapy or chemotherapy, or a newer immunotherapy treatment.
There are also some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you have recently had similar treatments (within the last 5 years), or if you are currently pregnant or breastfeeding. You also can't join if you have more than one active cancer, or if you've recently been part of another study where you received an experimental treatment. The study also needs to make sure you are generally well enough to take part and can understand what’s involved.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you have a solid tumour cancer that has been confirmed?
- Are you about to start your very first treatment for this cancer?
- Are you not pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Have you not had similar cancer treatments in the last 5 years?
- Do you not have more than one active cancer needing treatment?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, the study will involve collecting samples, like blood tests, at different times. These will be taken before you start your treatment and then again after your treatment has finished. These samples will be used to look for the tiny 'biomarkers' we talked about earlier. You will also have your usual clinical evaluations, which are standard check-ups to see how you are doing.
The specific number of visits or the exact timing of samples will depend on your treatment plan. You won't be given any new or experimental medications as part of this study; it only involves collecting samples and information about your existing treatment. The total duration of your involvement will depend on how long your treatment lasts and when follow-up samples are needed, but it will fit around your normal care.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS TrustVerified postcodeCoventry, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is a 'biomarker'?
Biomarkers are like tiny natural signals in your body that can give doctors information about your health, including how cancer treatments are affecting you.
Will this study change my cancer treatment?
No, this study will not change your cancer treatment. You will receive the standard treatment your doctor recommends, and the study will just collect information about how your body responds to it.
Do I have to take any extra medicines for this study?
No, you will not be asked to take any additional or experimental medicines for this study. It's about observing the effects of your current treatment.
What kind of samples will be collected?
Mainly, blood samples will be collected, usually at the same time as any routine blood tests you already have for your treatment.
Who can see my personal information from the study?
Your personal information will be kept private. Only authorised study staff will have access to your details, and your data will be anonymised where possible to protect your identity.
How to find out more
Hardip Sandhu, MBA, BSc, MSc, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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