The START Center for Cancer Research has significantly expanded its global oncology research capabilities with the acquisition of Carolina Urologic Research Center (CURC), a premier clinical research site specializing in genitourinary (GU) oncology. Announced on March 18, 2025, this strategic acquisition positions START to address the growing burden of urological cancers, which now account for over one in eight cancer diagnoses globally.
CURC, founded in 1998 by Neal Shore, MD, FACS, has established itself as the leading urologic oncology research site worldwide, having conducted nearly 500 clinical trials. The center brings substantial expertise in both early and late-phase trials to START's research portfolio.
"Urologic cancers represent one of the fastest-growing areas in oncology, driven by an aging population, increasing incidence rates, and advancements in diagnostic techniques," said Nick Slack, MBE, Chairman and CEO of START. "This expansion allows us to lead the charge in supporting research opportunities in this critical space, while ensuring that patients have access to the most advanced therapeutic options available."
New Center of Excellence for Urological Cancers
As part of the acquisition, START is establishing a dedicated Center of Excellence (COE) focused on delivering comprehensive trial solutions for urological cancers. This specialized center will integrate both early and late-phase trial execution with direct patient-to-PDX (patient-derived xenograft) translational services, effectively bridging the gap between research and clinical application.
Dr. Neal Shore, who will lead the new COE, expressed enthusiasm about the merger: "Joining the START global site network marks an exciting new chapter for CURC. START is the leader in early phase oncology trials, and we share a mission to bring the hope of clinical trials to patients worldwide. As part of the START network, we will gain access to additional expertise, capabilities and resources, dramatically expanding our impact on urologic oncology research."
Addressing a Growing Global Health Challenge
The acquisition comes at a critical time in oncology research. With an estimated 2.6 million new cases diagnosed annually, genitourinary cancers represent a significant and growing global health challenge. These cancers, which include prostate, bladder, kidney, and testicular malignancies, require specialized expertise and research infrastructure.
CURC brings to START a team of 6 board-certified urologists and 22 full-time research staff, significantly enhancing the combined organization's capacity to conduct specialized trials. The integration will allow for expanded partnerships with leading urological practices globally, creating what START describes as a "fully integrated, end-to-end solution" for sponsors developing novel therapies.
Strengthening START's Global Research Network
This acquisition further solidifies START's position as a global leader in oncology clinical trials. The organization has already conducted more than a thousand early-phase clinical trials, including 45 therapies that received FDA or EMA approval.
The integration of CURC's specialized capabilities is expected to accelerate the development pathway for new urologic cancer treatments. By combining START's expertise in early-phase oncology trials with CURC's specialized knowledge in urological cancers, the partnership aims to create new opportunities for patients seeking innovative treatment options.
For pharmaceutical and biotech companies developing therapies for urological cancers, the expanded START network now offers enhanced capabilities spanning the entire development continuum, from preclinical research through late-phase clinical trials.
Impact on Patient Access to Clinical Trials
A key focus of the merger is improving patient access to cutting-edge clinical trials. By expanding its specialized research network, START aims to bring advanced therapeutic options to more patients worldwide.
The combined organization will leverage CURC's strong reputation and sponsor relationships to expand clinical trial opportunities for patients with urological cancers, potentially accelerating the path from research to approved treatments.
As the field of urologic oncology continues to evolve with new targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and combination approaches, the START-CURC partnership positions the organization at the forefront of translating scientific discoveries into clinical benefits for patients with these challenging diseases.
