Cancer research is a complex, multi-faceted journey that does not begin with clinical trials, requiring a critical link from discovery science in the lab to treatments delivered in the clinic—a process often called 'bench to bedside.

Without this translational component, new discoveries slow down, and patient access to innovative treatments is hindered. This episode explores how to foster this essential cycle, addressing current challenges like funding for translational research, the need for greater integration and collaboration across the island of Ireland, and the vital role of industry partnerships. The discussion highlights key findings from the All-Ireland Cancer Research Institute (ACRI) Landscape Report and the growing impact of patient-led studies like ProAct.

Host Dr. Ciara Kelly is joined by two of Ireland’s leading cancer experts: Professor Liam Gallagher, Professor of Cancer Biology at UCD and Co-Lead of the All-Ireland Cancer Research Institute, and Angela Clayton-Lea, the CEO of Cancer Trials Ireland.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

Professor Gallagher's path to cancer biology.

The cycle of bench-to-bedside research.

HRB translational research funding challenges.

Why all-island collaboration is extremely important.

Patient-led research and the ProAct project.

MORE INFORMATION

https://www.cancertrials.ie

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Clinical trial activity is not yet fully integrated into the Irish healthcare system as a standard of care, leading to slower patient access to innovative treatments and missed opportunities for system-wide improvement.

This episode explores the critical need for a research-active health system, the power of incorporating mandatory performance metrics, and the significant financial and clinical value that trials bring to the country. The discussion delves into the work of the National Clinical Trials Oversight Group and Cancer Trials Ireland's ambitious strategy to double the number of open trials.

Joining Dr. Ciara Kelly is Professor Donal Brennan, a Professor of Gynaecological Oncology at UCD and formerly the Chair of the National Clinical Trials Oversight Group, and Angela Clayton-Lea, the CEO of Cancer Trials Ireland.

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

Professor Donal Brennan's career path.

Trials should be part of standard care.

The National Clinical Trials Oversight Group.

The importance of mandatory metrics/KPIs.

Future outlook for clinical trials in Ireland.

MORE INFORMATION

https://www.cancertrials.ie

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The challenge of low clinical trial availability for gynaecological cancers in countries with small populations requires a unified, international approach to research. Gynae cancer patients often have limited treatment options, highlighting a massive unmet need that single institutions or smaller nations cannot solve alone.

This episode dives into the crucial work of the European Network for Gynaecological Oncological Trial Groups (ENGOT) and its collaboration with Cancer Trials Ireland. The discussion covers how this powerful collective fosters new, innovative trial options for women across Ireland and Europe, addresses recruitment challenges, and maintains an academic vision to drive patient-focused research.

Host Lucy Murphy is joined by two extraordinary leaders: Professor Isabelle Ray-Coquard, Medical Oncologist and the current Chair of ENGOT, and Professor Karen Cadoo, Gynaecology Medical Oncologist, Researcher, and one of the chairs of the Gynae DSSG at Cancer Trials Ireland. They bring deep expertise in clinical trials, oncology research, and international cooperative group collaboration

THINGS WE SPOKE ABOUT

ENGOT's history, mission, and structure.

Collaboration key to rare cancer trials.

Academic vision versus pharma priorities.

Challenges of drug reimbursement in Ireland.

Future focus: personalized gynae medicine.

GUEST DETAILS

Professor Isabelle Ray-Coquard is a Medical Oncologist and the current Chair of the European Network for Gynaecological Oncological Trial Groups (ENGOT). She is a key opinion leader in the gynae cancer space, driven by the belief that international collaboration is the only way to bring innovative therapy to patients with gynaecological cancers. She champions the importance of maintaining an academic vision in clinical trial design and ensuring database sharing for further clinician-based research.

Professor Karen Cadoo is a Gynaecology Medical Oncologist, Researcher, and one of the chairs of the Gynae Disease Specific Subgroup (DSSG) at Cancer Trials Ireland. Having worked at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre in New York, she has extensive experience in women's health and inherited cancer genetics. She advocates for Irish patients' access to international trials, recognizing the value of the collaborative group structure for rare cancers and securing access to cutting-edge therapies that may not be locally reimbursed.5. Best Quotes with Timestamps

QUOTES

The success of ENGOT comes from two important points. One is solidarity and friendship. - Prof. Isabelle Ray-Coquard

The second point is the transparency. Everything is revealed to everybody. There is no discussion outside of behind people, and it's also because we have this transparency that we trust in each other - Prof. Isabelle Ray-Coquard

The opportunity to collaborate with international groups is so valuable to us." - Prof. Karen Cadoo

MORE INFORMATION

Cancer Trials Ireland is a registered charity and the leading cancer research trials organisation in Ireland. It aims to provide every patient with cancer access to high-quality and potentially life-altering cancer trials and to make Ireland a highly attractive location to open cancer trials. Discover more at cancertrials.ie

KEYWORDS

#GynaeOncology #ClinicalTrialsIreland #ENGOT #CancerResearch #PersonalisedMedicine

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