START Center Expands Global Oncology Site Network with New Collaboration

START Center Expands Global Oncology Site Network

The START Center for Cancer Research, renowned as a leader in early-phase oncology trials, is making significant strides in its mission to combat cancer. The recent acquisition of the Carolina Urologic Research Center (CURC), a highly regarded clinical research site focusing on genitourinary (GU) oncology, marks a pivotal expansion in START's operational network. This collaboration not only strengthens the capabilities of START in a rapidly evolving field but is also set to enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments for patients.

Urological cancers are currently on the rise, with new diagnoses surpassing 2.6 million annually, making them a critical area of focus within the oncology landscape. START's strategic move to include CURC, which boasts an impressive track record of nearly 500 clinical trials, positions the center at the forefront of GU oncology research. Founded in 1998 by Dr. Neal Shore, CURC has made a name for itself not only through the volume of trials but also through the quality of its research outcomes, establishing itself as a premier site for urological oncology nationwide.

A New Era of Research and Innovation

With the acquisition, START is set to introduce a specialized Center of Excellence (COE), dedicated to tackling complex urological cancer challenges. This new entity aims to streamline both early-phase and late-phase trial execution, connecting research directly to the clinical application through a patient-to-PDX translational service. By bridging this gap, START and CURC will facilitate the development and deployment of innovative therapeutic options.

Dr. Neal Shore, who will lead the COE, emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, 'Joining the START global site network marks an exciting new chapter for CURC. START’s extensive resources and expertise will enable us to expand our impact on urologic oncology research, while also creating new pathways for patient access to clinical trials.'

Enhancing Patient Care

Nick Slack, Chairman and CEO of START, highlighted the urgency of research in this area: 'Urologic cancers are increasingly prevalent due to an aging population and advancements in diagnostic techniques. Our expansion with CURC allows us to bolster research opportunities and expedite access to groundbreaking therapies for patients, ensuring they receive the most advanced treatment options available.' This partnership will not only benefit patients but also sponsors looking to develop and test new cancer therapies within a robust research framework.

Leadership and Expertise

CURC brings with it a team of highly skilled healthcare professionals and a reputation that is recognized both nationally and internationally. This new relationship cements START’s position in the oncology clinical trials market, especially as it continues to grow its ever-expanding portfolio of innovative research initiatives. CURC’s commitment to quality and its strong relationships with sponsors will significantly enhance START's operational capabilities and facilitate faster trial execution.

The START Center has a proven track record, conducting over a thousand early-phase clinical trials, including those that have led to 45 FDA or EMA approvals. This new collaboration stands to amplify those efforts, driving research quality and accessibility.

For those engaged in the battle against cancer, the integration of CURC into START's network promises a brighter future filled with hope and new possibilities for treatment and recovery.

In conclusion, the merging of these two prominent entities signals a transformative shift in urological cancer research and paves the way for enriched collaboration in addressing one of the most pressing health challenges faced today. To learn more about this groundbreaking partnership and what it means for the future of oncology research, visit START's official website and CURC's website.