The SJK Ralston Project

The aim of The SJK Ralston Project is to provide access to next generation sequencing (NGS) for patients with cancer of unknown primary and rare cancers. SJK are delighted to support the National Molecular Tumour Board led by Dr Dearbhaile Collins and Cancer Trials Ireland and are members of the steering committee.

Molecular Tumour Boards are a specific type of multi-disciplinary tumour board meeting where patients whom have under gone NGS of their tumour tissue can have their results discussed by a group of experts to investigate if there is any actionable mutations found. With this information the experts will discuss potential targeted therapies and or access to potential clinical trial.

SJK will support by funding NGS testing for CUP patients in the hope the study will be a gate opener for all cancers. In the future, where the cancer began may not be the treatment priority, and instead treatment will be tailored to the unique genetic make up found by genomic profiling. Enabling targeted treatment options specific to the individual patients needs. For patients with cancer of unknown primary and unusual cancers, genetic profiling offers a vital opportunity for targeted treatment. Studies have shown that relevant mutations are observed in 30-85% of patients with cancer of unknown primary.

Genomic profiling is opening up access to clinical trials and access to revolutionary new treatments; unfortunately, despite these benefits, the transition to personalised medicine is slow.

One patient, one test, one at a time. To support our journey, please