UK-based partnership to launch DETERMINE study into rare cancer research

UK-based CRO Quanticate is set to partner with Cancer Research UK for the launch of the DETERMINE study focused on testing a range of existing and approved drugs and therapies on rare cancers.

The DETERMINE study will focus on patients with rare cancers in order to investigate the utilisation of existing licensed drugs for the treatment of particular rare cancers. Individuals with an identifiable genetic alteration in their cancer will form cohorts to be targeted by treatments already approved for other cancer types. As a data-focused CRO with a primary focus on data capture, statistical analysis, and clinical trial report, Quanticate will work with Cancer Research UK’s Centre for Drug Development to ensure the optimisation of the study’s statistical design.

Commenting on Quanticate’s role in the DETERMINE study, CEO David Underwood stated: “The study will strive to improve the outcome for patients who may have run out of options during their cancer journey... Cancer Research UK has asked adults, young people, and children who are suffering with a rare type of cancer to come forward with the possibility that there may be an existing approved drug that could benefit them. Furthermore, analyss from this study could also open up successful treatment options for other patients with similar cancer types who are not enrolled on the trial.” The study is slated to commence across the UK from September 2022, with approximately 15–20 treatment branches each with initial trial cohorts of 30 evaluable patients. 

Underwood further commented: “Quanticate is delighted to partner with Cancer Research UK for a program so close to home for many people and we are hopeful that the study will be successful in finding results that will improve the quality of life for many patients.” 

Nigel Blackburn, Director of Cancer Research UK’s Centre for Drug Development, added, “We’re delighted to partner with Quanticate and welcome the valuable expertise they bring to this incredibly important trial which will allow potentially life-saving treatments to be opened up to people with rare cancers.”