The LOLA (Liquid Biopsy, Lung and Colon Cancer in Andalusia) Project has been launched to transform the diagnosis and treatment of lung and colon cancer within the Andalusian Public Health System. This initiative integrates liquid biopsies and advanced next-generation sequencing technologies to improve patient outcomes.
Led by researchers from the Granada Biosanitary Research Institute (ibs.GRANADA), the project is officially announced by the Ministry of Health and Consumption through the General Secretariat of Public Health and Research, Development, and Innovation in Health. The scientific coordination is managed by Dr. María José Serrano from ibs.GRANADA and the Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, along with Dr. Valeria Denninghoff from the GENyO Center.
Non-Invasive Cancer Detection
The LOLA Project marks a significant advancement in using liquid biopsy as a non-invasive tool for identifying genetic mutations. This technique allows for the rapid and accurate detection of key genomic alterations in patients with metastatic cancer, providing an efficient alternative to traditional biopsies. Liquid biopsy facilitates the detection of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in blood samples, aiding in the personalization of treatments and early detection of treatment resistance.
Dr. María José Serrano emphasized, "This advance will allow us to obtain genetic profiles of tumors in a less invasive way, something crucial in patients with advanced cancer, where traditional biopsies are often unfeasible." She also noted that incorporating this technology into the Andalusian Public Health System represents a major step in precision medicine, optimizing resource use and enhancing patient outcomes.
Project Scope and Implementation
The project will span 12 Andalusian hospitals, engaging experts in oncology, pathology, and bioinformatics. Patients with metastatic lung and colon cancer will be selected to undergo liquid biopsy as part of their clinical follow-up and treatment. The implementation of liquid biopsy aims to enhance patients' quality of life by reducing the risks associated with conventional biopsies and shortening the waiting times for genetic results, thereby optimizing clinical decision-making.
Impact on Healthcare System
The LOLA Project will also establish a database of genetic variants prevalent in the Andalusian population. This database will enable more precise treatment control and optimized management of healthcare system resources. The project is funded by TEMPUS, in collaboration with the Andalusian Health Service (SAS), and managed by the Foundation for Biosanitary Research of Eastern Andalusia (FIBAO).
By bringing scientific innovation to patients and significantly improving therapeutic strategies, the LOLA Project positions Andalusia at the forefront of cancer research and treatment.
