The Dutch Cancer Society (KWF) has allocated over 1.4 million euros to bring innovative cancer research closer to real-world applications. The approved proof of concepts projects help researchers take a significant step in translating their new discoveries into practical applications with real world benefits. Three Cancer Center Amsterdam researchers, Rob Verhoeven, Maarten Bijlsma, and Geert Kazemier have received funding for their projects.

Researchers face numerous challenges during the development of their discoveries. Which parties should they involve and when? How does the innovation compare to existing market offerings and similar initiatives? Is the application cost-effective, and who will cover the expenses? Are there any technical adjustments required? How can intellectual property rights be protected? Does the innovation comply with European laws and regulations?

Through the Proof of Concept (PoC) program, KWF encourages researchers to answer these questions and outline the necessary steps to ultimately bring their innovations into clinical use. The program is designed for KWF projects with promising results that have already undergone initial validation. This means there is a high degree of certainty that the innovation will deliver the intended results.

Granted Projects:

The SOURCE Tool: Achieving CE certification and implementation in daily practice

Project Leader: Dr. Rob Verhoeven

Project Budget: € 148,096.94

The online SOURCE tool was previously developed during a KWF-funded project. This tool provides insight into the expected treatment outcomes (survival, side effects, and quality of life) for patients with esophageal and stomach cancer. It assists doctors and patients in making treatment decisions together. The goal of this project is to obtain CE certification and create a business plan, both of which are necessary to use the tool. CE (conformité Européenne) refers to a regulatory standard assuring these products are safe for use and sale within the European Union.

A New Treatment for Abdominal Metastases

Project Leader: Dr. Maarten Bijlsma

Project Budget: € 154,622.20

There is a great need for new treatments for patients with abdominal metastases. In a previous KWF project, a molecule was discovered that appears to be an effective drug. The aim of this project is to prepare the molecule for testing in patients. What is the best method of administration, which patients are eligible, and what steps are required to bring the drug to market?

Implementation of Artificial Intelligence Models for Calculating Total Tumor Volume in Colorectal Cancer with Liver Metastases

Project Leader: Prof. Geert Kazemier

Project Budget: € 127,094.00

Total tumor volume (TTV) is predictive of the survival of colorectal cancer patients with liver metastases. In part based on TTV, targeted treatment decisions can be made. However, calculating TTV is difficult, time-consuming, and not done routinely. In a previous KWF project, an artificial intelligence model was developed that automatically calculates TTV based on CT scans. The goal of this project is to make this model suitable for everyday use.

These funding initiatives represent a significant step towards bringing innovative cancer research closer to real-world applications, ultimately benefiting patients and advancing the field of oncology.

For more information, contact Cancer Center Amsterdam.

Funding by Dutch Cancer Society

This article was adapted from the KWF announcement

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