Panthera, Rutherford Health launch oncology trial network

13-Jul-2020 - Last updated on 13-Jul-2020 at 16:48 GMT

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The UK-based collaboration will include expertise across more than 40 types of cancer, with access to patients from more than 170 referring oncologists.

Clinical site management firm Panthera has joined forces with cancer specialists Rutherford Health to form a network of clinical trial sites focused on development of new cancer treatments. The collaboration, titled Panthera@theRutehrford, will harness Panthera’s capabilities in managing clinical trials with Rutherford Health’s network of cancer centers and oncologists.

Rutherford Health’s network of cancer treatment centers and doctors currently includes four UK facilities, sited in Newport, Reading, Bedlington and Liverpool. The clinical trials will draw patients from all across the UK, from more than 170 referring oncologists.

Mike Moran, CEO of Rutherford Health PLC, said the partnership will enable the creation of novel oncology therapies.

“By collaborating with Panthera and our team of oncologists, we will be at the forefront of research into innovative therapies and we’ll be able offer more opportunities to patients and access to life-saving treatments,” Moran commented.

The Rutherford Health cancer centers make use of advanced diagnostic and treatment equipment, including MRI, CT, and proton beam therapy. They also offer chemotherapy, Immunotherapy and radiotherapy treatments.

Ian Smith, Panthera’s chief medical officer, called the collaboration a “breakthrough partnership.”

“Over 30% of all global clinical trials planned for 2020 are cancer trials; bringing research and cancer care together in one place will provide pharma and CROs the opportunity to undertake clinical trials with unrivalled access to more than 40 types of cancer and have access to millions of potential patients when there is a great shortage of top class sites,” Smith said.

According to a Panthera representative, COVID-19 has greatly impacted oncology trials, with patients encountering delayed diagnosis and reduced access to hospitals and clinics. Staff with Panthera@theRutherford reportedly will offer strict precautions, remote visits and remote monitoring to help ensure patient safety.