MARTINI Study version 1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Minimal Residual Disease: A trial using liquid biopsies in solid malignancies
IRAS ID
285462
Contact name
Harriet Walter
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Leicester
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
N/A, N/A
Duration of Study in the UK
5 years, 5 months, 30 days
Research summary
The NHS’ Genomic Medicine Service offers whole genome sequencing as part of the drive to improve cancer outcomes. It is recognised that actionable mutations (current and emerging), will ultimately improve outcomes across multiple disease sites by identifying which treatments may benefit individual patients the most, and by providing earlier and more accurate diagnoses. However, testing in the cancer setting is currently limited to haematological malignancies and sarcoma. The majority of patients with solid tumours do not yet have access to this platform and the benefits that it may bring. Therefore, expanding genomic testing capacity within a research setting has potential to benefit those patients that would otherwise not be able to access testing. In this study we will be using tissue derived from patients undergoing surgery for cancer to validate an in-house genomic testing platform against Roche’s Foundation Medicine genomic profile service, which is an FDA- approved commercial platform.
In addition, two blood samples will be taken in order that we can test whether markers present in the tissue may also be seen in blood. We hope that this will help us monitor minimal residual disease in patients, allowing earlier detection of relapse/recurrence than radiology currently allows.
Patients may also agree to donate optional excess fresh tissue from their surgery. This will be integrated with other laboratory platforms which may offer information on prospective drug response based on genotypic profiles (e.g., patient-derived explants).
REC name
North West - Liverpool Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
20/NW/0467
Date of REC Opinion
16 Dec 2020
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion