RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Ultrafast Whole Genome Sequencing for Childhood Cancer

This study is investigating a new, very fast genetic test called Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) for children and young people up to age 24 who have cancer. Currently, genetic test results can take weeks, which can delay important treatment decisions, especially for aggressive cancers like certain leukaemias. WGS aims to provide these genetic insights overnight. By getting a rapid understanding of a patient's specific cancer, doctors hope to identify those at higher risk sooner and start targeted treatments earlier. This could significantly improve outcomes, allowing treatment plans to be tailored more precisely from the very beginning of the patient's journey.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Cambridge

Enrolment target

Start

19 Oct 2022

Estimated completion

17 Oct 2028

Cancer Childhood

What is this study about?

This study is about finding a quicker way to diagnose and understand childhood cancers using a new type of genetic test called 'Whole Genome Sequencing' (WGS). At the moment, when a child is diagnosed with cancer, doctors run several tests to understand the specific type of cancer and its genetic makeup. These tests can take a week or even longer to get results. While they provide important information, the waiting period can be anxious for families and means that specific treatments, particularly for high-risk cancers, might be delayed.

The hospital where this study is taking place, Cambridge University Hospitals, looks after many children and young people with cancer each year. They want to see if WGS can provide vital genetic information much faster – potentially overnight. This rapid information is incredibly important because some cancers, like certain types of leukaemia, need very specific targeted treatments. If doctors can quickly identify these genetic markers, they can start the most effective treatment sooner, which could lead to better chances of recovery.

For example, some leukaemias have a specific genetic change called 'Philadelphia chromosome positive' or 'Ph-like mutations'. Knowing about these early means doctors can use special medicines called tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) which work well for these types of cancer. Similarly, in certain brain tumours, a rapid genetic finding can change the treatment plan from day one. This study aims to show that fast WGS can replace current, slower tests, helping doctors make timely, life-saving decisions for young patients with cancer.

Key takeaways

Aims to speed up cancer diagnosis and treatment decisions.
Uses a new, very fast genetic test (Whole Genome Sequencing).
May help identify high-risk cancers sooner for targeted treatment.
Specifically for children and young people up to age 24 with cancer.
Only requires a small extra blood and bone marrow sample once.

Who may be eligible?

To be considered for this study, participants need to be under 25 years old and have either been diagnosed with cancer or doctors suspect they have cancer. It's important that you, or your parent/guardian if you're under 16, are able to understand and sign a consent form willing to take part.

For the very first stage of this study, only patients with a type of blood cancer called leukaemia (ALL or AML) will be included. This helps the researchers test their methods on a specific group before expanding further.

Unfortunately, if there isn't enough sample material (like blood or bone marrow) left over after your routine diagnostic tests, or if you're unable to provide written consent, you wouldn't be able to join this study.

Quick self-check

Are you under 25 years old?
Do you have a confirmed or suspected cancer diagnosis?
Are you, or your parent/guardian, able to give written consent?
Is there enough of your sample material available after routine tests?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, it's quite straightforward. After your regular diagnostic samples (like blood or bone marrow) are taken as part of your standard care, an additional small amount of blood (about 5ml, which is roughly a teaspoon) and bone marrow will be collected. This extra sample is what researchers will use for the rapid genetic testing. This is a one-time collection at the point of diagnosis. You won't need extra hospital visits or follow-up appointments specifically for this study.

Potential risks and benefits

A potential benefit of taking part is that the rapid genetic testing might provide crucial information about your cancer much faster than current methods. This could help your doctors tailor your treatment more precisely and quickly, potentially improving your outcome. The main risk involved is the slight discomfort and small chance of bruising associated with the extra blood and bone marrow samples. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your medical care.

Locations (1)

Addenbrookes Hospital
Cambridge, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is Whole Genome Sequencing?

It's a fast genetic test that looks at all your genes to find important changes in cancer cells that can help doctors choose the best treatment.

Will taking part change my normal cancer treatment?

The study aims to provide quicker information that *might* help doctors make earlier, more informed treatment decisions, but the study itself doesn't involve new therapies.

How long will I be in the study?

Your participation involves providing extra samples once at the start of your diagnosis. There are no ongoing visits or treatments specifically for the study.

Are there any side effects from the extra tests?

The main effects are minor discomfort or bruising from the extra blood and bone marrow samples, similar to what you'd feel from your routine tests.

Will I get to see my genetic test results?

The results will be shared with your medical team to help guide your care. You can discuss these results and what they mean with your doctor.

How to find out more

Victoria Joslin

vicky.joslin@nhs.net 01223217251 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.