Researchers Launch Groundbreaking Study to Uncover Cancer Survival Secrets

Researchers from Cambridge University Hospitals, in collaboration with the NHS Health Research Authority, have launched the Rosalind Study to uncover the biological secrets behind exceptional cancer survivors. Led by Cure51 and partnering with nine leading UK oncology centers, this initiative aims to revolutionize cancer care by leveraging advanced multi-omics data to develop transformative treatments for aggressive cancers like glioblastoma and metastatic pancreatic cancer.

Nicolas Wolikow, CEO of Cure51, emphasized the study's importance: "This is a pivotal step in the Rosalind study, as our first and largest partnership in the UK, advancing our mission to identify what sets cancer survivors apart. This work is made possible due to the support of the nine leading UK hospitals and institutions, all united in the goal of defeating cancer.”

Focusing on Super-Responders

The Rosalind Study targets three aggressive cancer types: glioblastoma, extensive-stage small cell lung cancer, and metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. By studying tumor samples from over 1,000 "exceptional responders"—the top 3% in survival rates—researchers hope to unlock the biological mechanisms that set these patients apart.

Dr. Thankammah Ajithkummar, Consultant Clinical Oncologist at Cambridge University Hospitals, explained: “Patients who appear superficially similar in terms of their age and health, and the type and stage of their cancer, can have remarkably different responses to the same treatment. The Rosalind study represents a promising new approach to investigating the biology of cancer survivors, aiming to uncover insights that could improve outcomes for all patients.”

A Data-Driven Approach

Cure51 has developed a multi-omics database to analyze biological data from these exceptional survivors. By layering genetic, biomarker, and computational modeling data, the company seeks to identify novel therapeutic targets that could lead to transformative treatments.

The study also integrates cutting-edge technology, including 10x Genomics’ Visium HD precision technology, which enhances diagnostic accuracy and treatment development. Cure51’s €15 million seed funding, secured in early 2024, underpins these advancements.

“At Cure51, we are reverse engineering the cure for cancer. By leveraging technology, data and our dedicated team of computational biologists, we aim to uncover the hidden biology of miraculous survivors, to develop therapies that could one day make cancer a manageable disease for all. We are honored to have the support of nine of the world’s most influential hospitals in cancer research,” noted Simon Istolainen, Chief Strategy & Scientific Network Officer, Co-Founder of Cure51.

Global Collaboration with a Bold Vision

Founded in partnership with leading oncology centers in France, Germany, and Italy, Cure51 brings together public-private collaboration and expertise in computational biology, medicine, and oncology. Its global network of over 50 research centers and its partnerships with key opinion leaders (KOLs) bolster its capacity to push the boundaries of cancer research.