AURORA: Aiming to Understand the Molecular Aberrations in Metastatic Breast Cancer.
The AURORA study is looking at advanced (metastatic) breast cancer to understand it better. Researchers are collecting samples of tumour tissue and blood from patients across Europe. They want to find out what makes these cancers unique at a genetic level and why some treatments work well for some patients but not others. The goal is to use this knowledge to develop more effective, personalised treatments for everyone with advanced breast cancer. Patients might also get the chance to join other new drug trials if their cancer has specific genetic changes being studied. Ultimately, the study hopes to improve the care and outcomes for all advanced breast cancer patients.
At a glance
What is this study about?
The AURORA study is a big research project looking into advanced breast cancer. This is when breast cancer has spread to other parts of the body. The main goal is to understand the cancer better by looking closely at its genetic makeup. Researchers want to find out why some treatments are successful and others aren't, and why cancer might come back after treatment. They are collecting samples like tumour tissue and blood from around 1,300 patients across many hospitals in Europe. These samples will help them learn more about the changes within the cancer cells.
By gathering this information, the researchers hope to find new ways to treat advanced breast cancer more effectively. The idea is to move towards 'personalised' medicine, where doctors can choose the best treatment for each individual patient based on their specific cancer. This could mean fewer side effects and better results overall. They are also looking to see if patients with particular genetic changes within their cancer might benefit from new treatments that are currently in development, potentially offering them a chance to join other clinical trials.
All the samples that aren't used immediately will be safely stored for future research. This means the study isn't just about what we know now, but also about helping future generations of scientists continue to learn and improve treatments for advanced breast cancer. Ultimately, the AURORA study aims to make a real difference in the lives of people living with advanced breast cancer.
Key takeaways
- A major European study on advanced breast cancer.
- Aims to understand cancer's unique genetic changes.
- Involves collecting tumour and blood samples, not new drugs.
- Could lead to more personalised and effective treatments.
- You might be invited to other drug trials if suitable.
- Your contribution helps future patients with advanced breast cancer.
Who may be eligible?
To join the AURORA study, you need to be at least 18 years old, male or female. You must have advanced breast cancer that has spread to other parts of your body, or breast cancer that has returned locally and can't be cured with standard treatments. You also shouldn't have had more than one type of treatment for your advanced breast cancer already. This means you might be suitable if your advanced breast cancer has just been diagnosed, or if it has come back and you've had one or no previous treatments for it.
There are also specific groups of patients that are being focused on in certain parts of the study. For example, if you have triple-negative breast cancer, or a specific type called invasive lobular breast cancer, or if your breast cancer has come back more than 10 years after your first diagnosis, you might be particularly suitable. However, you must have some leftover tissue from your original breast cancer diagnosis that can be used for research, and your doctor must be able to take a sample from one of your advanced cancer sites safely.
Crucially, you would need to be well enough to take part and give your written permission (consent) before joining. The sample from your advanced cancer site needs to be taken either when your advanced breast cancer is first diagnosed (before you start your first treatment for it) or if your cancer has progressed and you're about to start a new treatment line.
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 advanced (metastatic) breast cancer?
- Have you had one or no treatments for your advanced breast cancer?
- Can a sample of your advanced cancer be taken safely?
- If you had original breast cancer, is some tissue still available for research?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in the AURORA study, it would involve providing samples of your tumour tissue and blood. This includes a sample of your original breast cancer tissue, if available, and a new biopsy from one of your advanced cancer sites. A biopsy is a procedure where a small piece of tissue is removed for examination. Blood samples (serum and plasma) will also be collected. These samples help researchers understand your cancer better. The study does not involve new medications; it focuses on collecting information and samples to learn more. There isn't a set number of visits, as the main involvement is providing these samples. The study aims to look at your cancer's characteristics. Once your samples are collected, your direct involvement might be limited, but the information will be used for ongoing research, potentially for many years.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (52)
- Institut Jules BordetVerified postcodeBrussels, Belgium· Recruiting
- Cliniques Universitaires St-LucVerified postcodeBrussels, Belgium· Recruiting
- Grand Hopital CharleroiVerified postcodeCharleroi, Belgium· Recruiting
- UZ LeuvenVerified postcodeLeuven, Belgium· Recruiting
- CHU de LiègeVerified postcodeLiège, Belgium· Active not recruiting
- Clinique et Maternité Sainte-Elisabeth (CMSE - Namur)Verified postcodeNamur, Belgium· Recruiting
- Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Klinik für Senologie/ BrustzentrumVerified postcodeEssen, Germany· Completed
- Frauenkliniken Maistrasse-Innenstadt und GroßhadernVerified postcodeMünchen, Germany· Active not recruiting
- LandspitaliVerified postcodeReykjavik, Iceland· Active not recruiting
- Ospedale degli Infermi - S.O.C.OncologiaVerified postcodeBiella, Italy· Completed
- Ospedale di Bolzano - Oncologia MedicaVerified postcodeBolzano, Italy· Active not recruiting
- Ospedale Ramazzini di CarpiVerified postcodeCarpi, Italy· Active not recruiting
Common questions
What is advanced breast cancer?
Advanced breast cancer, also called metastatic breast cancer, means the cancer has spread from the breast to other parts of the body.
What is the purpose of this study?
The study aims to understand the unique genetic features of advanced breast cancer and why treatments work or don't, to help find better, more personalised treatments in the future.
Will I receive new treatment if I join?
No, this study is primarily about collecting samples and information, not testing new treatments. However, you might be offered the chance to join other new drug trials if your cancer has specific genetic changes.
What samples will be collected?
You would provide tumour tissue from your original cancer and a new sample from an advanced cancer site, plus blood, serum, and plasma samples.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you are free to withdraw from the study at any time, and this will not affect the medical care you receive.
How to find out more
AURORA BIG HQ
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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