AuthorisedTherapeutic exploratory (Phase II)Interventional

The Swedish Nationwide Clinical Trial to Facilitate Patient Access to Targeted Cancer Treatment based on Biomarker Profiling (FOCU.SE)

The FOCU.SE study is a clinical trial in Sweden focusing on people with advanced cancer. The main idea is to find out if giving treatments tailored to the specific features of a person's cancer, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, can lead to better results. Researchers will look closely at the cancer to understand its unique characteristics. Based on these findings, they will then try to match patients with special medicines that are designed to target those particular features. This is a "Phase II" study, which means it's one of the earlier steps in testing new treatments to see if they are safe and effective.

At a glance

Status

Authorised

Phase

Therapeutic exploratory (Phase II)

Sponsor

Vaestra Goetalandsregionen

Enrolment target

2,000

Start

22 Aug 2025

Advanced Cancer

What is this study about?

The FOCU.SE study is a really important research project happening in Sweden, and it's all about finding better ways to treat advanced cancer. Imagine that every cancer is a bit different, like different types of locks. Traditional treatments might be like a universal key that tries to open many locks, but sometimes it doesn't work perfectly.

This study is trying a more personalised approach. Researchers will look very closely at each person's cancer, almost like examining the details of a specific lock. They will try to find out what makes that particular cancer unique on a very small, biological level. Once they understand these unique features, they can then try to find a special 'key' – a targeted medicine – that is specifically designed to work against those features. The hope is that by matching the treatment more precisely to the cancer, it could be more effective and have fewer side effects.

This type of research is called a "Phase II" study. This means it's an important step in developing new treatments, where scientists are exploring if these targeted approaches are safe and show promise in helping people with advanced cancer.

Key takeaways

This study explores personalised cancer treatment.
It aims to match treatments to your cancer's unique features.
It's for adults (18+) with advanced cancer.
The study is currently running in Sweden.
It's a Phase II study, exploring safety and effectiveness.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you would need to be an adult, 18 years old or older. The study is open to anyone, regardless of whether they are male or female.

Since this study is looking at advanced cancer, it means you would need a diagnosis of cancer that has progressed. The clinical team would check your medical records to ensure your specific cancer type and stage meets the study requirements.

Essentially, if you are an adult with advanced cancer, you might be a potential candidate for this study. However, the study doctors would need to look at all your medical information to confirm if it's the right fit for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you have a diagnosis of advanced cancer?
Are you able to travel to a study site in Sweden (if applicable)?
Are you prepared to undergo detailed tests for your cancer's features?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The detailed steps for taking part in this study are not fully described here. However, typically in studies like this, it would involve several visits to a clinic or hospital over a period. These visits might include detailed examinations, blood tests, and possibly biopsies to understand your cancer's unique features. You would then receive the experimental treatment designed to target your cancer. There would likely be regular follow-up appointments to monitor your health, how you're responding to treatment, and any side effects you might experience. The total duration of participation isn't specified, but clinical trials often last for several months to over a year, depending on the treatment and monitoring schedule.

Potential risks and benefits

Potential benefits of participating could include access to a new, targeted treatment that might be more effective for your specific cancer than standard options. It could also help advance medical knowledge, potentially benefiting future patients. However, like all medical treatments, there are potential risks, including side effects from the experimental treatment that may not be fully known yet. You would be closely monitored for any problems. It's very important to remember that you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

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Unverified
Sweden

Common questions

What does 'advanced cancer' mean in this study?

It refers to cancer that has grown or spread beyond its original location, and for which standard treatments may not be fully effective.

What is 'biomarker profiling'?

This means looking very closely at your cancer's unique features, like certain genes or proteins, to understand how it works and what might make it vulnerable to specific treatments.

Will I definitely get a new treatment if I join?

The goal is to match you with a targeted treatment, but this depends on what your cancer's profile shows and if a suitable treatment is available within the study.

What is a 'Phase II' study?

It's an early stage of testing where researchers check if a new treatment is safe, has promising effects, and can guide future larger studies.

Is this study only for people in Sweden?

Yes, this specific study is a 'Swedish Nationwide Clinical Trial', meaning it's being conducted across Sweden.