A new initiative, dubbed MANIFEST (Multiomic ANalysis of Immunotherapy Features Evidencing Success and Toxicity), has been launched by the Francis Crick Institute to address the challenges in effective immunotherapy. The project aims to identify predictive biomarkers that can help personalize cancer treatments, improving patient outcomes and reducing adverse effects. This collaborative effort brings together six NHS trusts, 14 academic institutions, and approximately 19 industry partners from the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors.
Biomarker Identification and Personalized Treatment
MANIFEST seeks to determine which biomarkers are present before immunotherapy begins and to develop monitoring tests during treatment. By gaining a deeper understanding of these biomarkers, doctors can tailor therapies to a patient's individual biochemistry. This approach aims to maximize the potential for successful treatment while minimizing side effects, a significant advantage over traditional cancer treatments.
AI-Driven Immune Profiling
The MANIFEST consortium will leverage advanced technologies, including AI-driven immune profiling from IMU Biosciences. This platform identifies immune cells in the bloodstream and uses machine learning to predict how individual variations will influence treatment responses. The integration of AI promises to enhance the precision and effectiveness of immunotherapy.
Large-Scale Patient Data Collection
The project will initially involve 6,000 patients, with 3,000 who have already undergone treatment and 3,000 who are beginning treatment for breast, bladder, kidney, and skin cancer. Data will be collected over four years to profile immune cells and analyze cancerous tumors, including their location relative to immune cells. The large scale of the project will provide a robust platform for validating findings and exploring the full potential of immunotherapy.
Collaboration and Future Investment
The collaboration between NHS trusts, academic institutions, and industry partners is expected to bring together valuable experience and resources. This collaborative environment will foster innovation and encourage further investment and research in personalized medicines. The Francis Crick Institute anticipates that the results of this project will pave the way for more effective and targeted cancer therapies.
