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START Center Expands Capabilities to Accelerate Early-Phase Hematological Cancer Trials

• The START Center for Cancer Research broadens its focus to early-phase hematological cancer trials, aiming to expedite the development of new therapies. • The expansion includes new principal investigators, advanced lab infrastructure, and strategic partnerships to enhance patient access to clinical trials. • START has conducted over 70 malignant hematology trials in the past five years, enrolling over 250 patients, demonstrating its expertise in the field. • The center aims to address the challenges of blood cancers by integrating clinical trials into community settings, ensuring patients receive care close to home.

The START Center for Cancer Research has announced an expansion of its capabilities to support early-phase hematological cancer trials globally. This move aims to address the growing demand for specialized clinical trial sites equipped to rapidly initiate and enroll patients in trials for blood cancers.

Strengthening Hematological Cancer Research

The expansion includes the addition of principal investigators such as Dr. Andrew Sochacki (START Midwest), Dr. Daniel Morillo (START Madrid FJD), Dr. Gala Vega (START Madrid FJD) and Dr. Damián Cubilla (START CIOCC). START has conducted more than 70 malignant hematology trials over the past five years, enrolling over 250 patients.
"Sites that combine expertise in hematological malignancies with experience in First-in-Human Phase 1 trials are relatively rare. Therefore, expanding our focus to include more blood cancer trials is a natural progression of our mission to provide access to patients globally," said Nick Slack, MBE, Chairman and CEO of START.

Comprehensive Support for Accelerated Therapy Development

START's enhanced focus on hematological cancers will provide sponsors with streamlined protocol review processes and accelerated trial initiation. With over 40 active early-phase hematology trials currently underway, START combines clinical experience with operational processes to support further expansion.
"We are proud to deepen our focus in advancing hematological cancer treatments," remarked Chris Takimoto, MD, PhD, Chief Medical Officer at START. "This expansion reflects our commitment to transforming the clinical trial landscape through clinical innovation and collaboration, helping our pharmaceutical partners bring more care options to patients faster and more effectively."

Integrating Clinical Trials into Community Settings

By integrating clinical trials into community oncology centers, START aims to ensure that patients receive care close to home, supported by local care teams and research opportunities. This approach reaffirms START's role as a global leader in oncology innovation, offering hope to patients and healthcare providers.
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Reference News

[1]
The START Center for Cancer Research Expands its Capabilities to Support Early-Phase ...
morningstar.com · Dec 10, 2024

The START Center for Cancer Research expands capabilities to support early-phase hematological cancer trials globally, a...

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