Researchers at London Health Sciences Center Research Institute (LHSCRI) have launched a Phase II clinical trial that aims to treat renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer) by inserting microscopic beads filled with radiation directly into blood vessels surrounding cancerous tumors. The goal is to improve patient outcomes through a new treatment option.
Kidney cancer occurs when kidney cells become malignant and grow uncontrollably. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, 9,000 people were diagnosed with kidney cancer or renal pelvis cancer in 2024.
“Kidney cancer, if it hasn’t spread to other areas of the body, can be addressed surgically by removing some or all of the organ,” says Dr. Derek Cool, Associate Scientist at LHSCRI and Interventional Radiologist at London Health Sciences Center (LHSC). “However, not all patients are candidates for surgery due to advanced age or health conditions like heart issues, poor lung function, or a history of major blood clotting. This type of cancer is resistant to chemotherapy and standard radiation. We’re therefore hoping this research uncovers a new treatment option to enhance patient outcomes.”
Unlike standard radiation therapy, which is delivered from outside the body, the study will deliver radiation internally, targeting kidney cancer tumors from inside the body. The radiation is being delivered through microscopic beads called TheraSphere Glass Microspheres produced by Boston Scientific. They are made of glass and contain a specific type of radiation called radioactive Yttrium (Y-90). They are proven effective as a standard of care for treating liver cancer and are now being explored in the treatment of other cancers.
“We expect these beads can deliver 10 times the amount of radiation when compared to external radiation,” says Dr. Cool. “By targeting the therapy directly in the tumor, we think we can avoid damage to surrounding organs while also delivering an incredibly strong dose of radiation with a higher potential of destroying cancer cells.”
Kidneys are essential for survival as they filter toxins from the blood. Preserving normal function is important to avoid kidney failure and the need for dialysis.
The study will include up to 16 patients with kidney cancer from the Verspeeten Family Cancer Center at LHSC. Eligible patients are those whose disease has not spread and who are not eligible for surgery.
Results will be analyzed to assess the effectiveness of the treatment, including whether it shrinks tumors and prevents disease progression. The team also hopes to expand into a larger multicenter Phase II trial to confirm success.
“Our team at LHSCRI is focused on finding innovative treatments that improve patient outcomes,” says Dr. Cool. “As we look ahead, we hope that this work can not only offer a new treatment option but also enhance the standard of care for patients with kidney cancer.”
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