Highlights
- Nationwide molecular profiling of cancer through biobank partnerships, analyzing up to 2,000 patient samples to identify new treatment targets.
- Significant funding of 625,000 euros for Tampere University, enabling the collection of fresh cancer samples for precise diagnostic and treatment options.
- Collaboration between universities, hospitals, and biobanks boosts personalized treatment research for colorectal and prostate cancers across Finland.
The Finnish Cancer Centre (FICAN) is leading new projects under the iCAN initiative to expand molecular cancer profiling across Finland. These efforts aim to identify new treatment targets by combining molecular data of cancerous tumors with patient health information.
Supported by 625,000 euros in funding for Tampere, the iCAN project is a flagship research initiative by the Academy of Finland. A collaboration between the University of Helsinki and HUS Helsinki University Hospital, the project now includes all regional centers within the FICAN network, working closely with regional biobanks.
Researchers are analyzing molecular changes in tumor samples and immune system responses to identify correlations and treatment targets. Patient consent for biobanking is essential for this research.
The iCAN-Tampere project focuses on personalized treatments for colorectal and prostate cancers, involving Associate Professor Toni Seppälä and Professor Matti Nykter from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, with support from the Tampere Biobank.
Dean Johanna Arola from the University of Helsinki emphasized the significance of fresh cancer sample collection for diagnostics. Oncologist Pia Vihinen highlighted the crucial funding for molecular cancer profiling in four regional cancer centers, enhancing diagnostic and treatment capabilities.
The National Cancer Centre FICAN, with five regional centers and a coordinating unit, benefits from the iCAN flagship and the Academy of Finland, advancing national cancer precision medicine.
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