A Platform Study for solId orgaN CancERs
This study, called PINCER, is collecting small samples of tissue and blood from adult patients (16-100 years old) who are having surgery or a biopsy for solid organ cancers. The main goal is to create a more efficient way for scientists to get these vital samples for specific research projects. Instead of building a large storage bank, the samples will go directly to approved individual studies. This helps researchers look closely at cancer's biology, using both fresh tissue and existing stored samples, alongside anonymised medical records. Understanding these cancers better is key to finding new and improved treatments.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine scientists trying to understand a complex puzzle like cancer. They often need tiny pieces of the puzzle – like a small piece of the cancerous tissue – to study it up close. This study, known as PINCER, aims to make it much easier for researchers to get these valuable samples from patients with solid organ cancers, which are cancers that affect organs like the lung, bowel, or breast.
Currently, collecting these samples can be a slow and difficult process for individual research projects. PINCER acts as a streamlined system, a bit like a central library for samples, but instead of storing them long-term, it makes them readily available for specific, approved research questions. This means that when you're having an operation or a biopsy for your cancer, a small extra sample can be collected and immediately used by scientists.
The main purpose is to help researchers gain a deeper understanding of how these cancers work. By studying these samples, along with your medical information (kept anonymous to protect your privacy), they can learn more about what causes cancer, how it grows, and hopefully, develop new and better ways to diagnose and treat it in the future. It's all about maximising the opportunities that arise when patients are already undergoing medical procedures.
Key takeaways
- Helps scientists understand solid organ cancers better.
- Collects small tissue and blood samples during routine procedures.
- No extra hospital visits or medication required for the study.
- Your medical information is kept anonymous.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time.
- Aims to improve future cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults who are aged between 16 and 100 years old. You might be able to take part if you are already having a biopsy (where a small piece of tissue is taken) or a surgical operation as part of your standard care for any solid organ cancer.
However, there are a few reasons why you might not be able to join. If you are under 16 years old, you won't be able to participate. Also, if you are unable to give your consent (permission) to be part of the study, or if you simply don't wish to, then you won't be included. Making sure you understand and agree is very important.
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 aged between 16 and 100?
- Are you having a biopsy or surgery for a solid organ cancer?
- Are you able to understand and give consent to take part?
- Are you happy for small extra samples to be taken during your procedure?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, the process is designed to fit in with your existing treatment plan. When you are having your biopsy or surgery for your cancer, a very small extra sample of tissue will be collected. If it's a biopsy, this extra piece will be taken with the same needle at the same time. If it's during surgery, a pathologist (a doctor who examines tissues) will take a small piece of the removed tumour that would otherwise be discarded, making sure it doesn't affect your diagnosis.
At the same time, if possible, a small amount of blood (about 60ml, which is similar to a few tablespoons) may also be taken from the cannula (a small tube) that you will already have in your vein for your procedure. All these samples will then be safely transported to a special facility for researchers to use. There are no additional visits to the hospital specifically for this study, and no extra medication or follow-up appointments from the study itself. The samples are taken during your routine medical procedures.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University of LiverpoolVerified postcodeLiverpool, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What kind of cancer patients can join?
Adults (16-100) having surgery or a biopsy for any type of solid organ cancer can potentially join.
Will I get any specific treatment from this study?
No, this study is about collecting samples for research, not providing treatment. Your medical care will remain exactly the same.
How will my samples be used?
Your samples will be used by approved scientists to study the biology of cancer and look for new ways to diagnose and treat it.
Will my information be kept private?
Yes, all your clinical and radiological data will be kept anonymous (pseudoanonymised) to protect your privacy.
Can I change my mind after saying yes?
Absolutely, you can withdraw your consent to participate at any time, and it will not affect your medical care.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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