ACORN Presents Findings of Collaborative Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Research
MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 21 // -- On Tuesday, April 15th, Lee S.
Schwartzberg, MD, FACP, President of the Accelerated Community Oncology
Research Network, Inc. presented findings at the American Association for
Cancer Research annual meeting in San Diego. The Phase II study tested a
novel biologic agent in conjunction with chemotherapy used in colorectal
cancer with encouraging interim results. More specifically, this Phase II
study was a biomarker and genomic correlative study of GFL: Interferon
Gamma, Bolus/Infusion 5-FU and Leucovorin for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer.
The study represented a unique collaboration in transitional research
between The West Clinic, a community-based oncology clinic in Memphis;
researchers at St. Jude Children's Hospital, Memphis; and Cincinnati
Children's Hospital.
Utilizing its centralized services, ACORN provided access, medical and
scientific oversight, statistical and project management, and publication
processes for the study. In addition to promising results, ACORN's ability
to provide tumor samples for genetic analysis before and after the therapy,
based upon its extensive experience in interventional radiology, makes it
one of a select few institutions capable of providing such samples which
are playing an ever increasing role in the development of personalized
medicine.
Study objectives sought to determine response rate as defined by the
Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) guidelines
established by the National Cancer Institute, Progression Free Survival
(PFS), and molecular correlates of GFL therapy.
55% of the study's participants were male and 45% female. African-
Americans accounted for 21% of the participants with the remaining
identified as Caucasian. The minority participation figure is well-above
national norms and reflects ACORN's commitment to make advanced clinical
research available to every member of the community who has a need.
Neutropenia (low white blood counts) and fatigue were the two most
commonly reported side effects; however, no patients withdrew from the
study as a result of any side effect.
The researchers concluded that GFL has promising clinical activity as
assessed by response rates compared to historical controls of 5-FU/LV with
the same dose and schedule. Furthermore, the lack of additional toxicity
allows other drugs to be added to the treatment. Additional correlative
studies are in progress as a result of these findings.
According to Steve Coplon, CEO, "ACORN continues to facilitate multiple
opportunities linking the best thought leaders from the academic community
with leading community oncologists who are committed to advancing the war
on cancer in busy clinics across the nation. Given our capabilities in CRO,
Network, and our own initiated trials, the results of these efforts are
regularly highlighted at important meetings such as AACR, ASCO, ASH, San
Antonio Breast, and other noteworthy venues."
For additional information visit http://www.ACORNresearch.net or
contact Liz Conway, Director of Marketing and Corporate Services,
901-259-0878.
Accelerated Community Oncology Research Network, Inc. (ACORN)
ACORN focuses on oncology exclusively. ACORN offers centralized
clinical trial services, scientific analysis, and is a full-service
Clinical Research Organization (CRO), providing contract and budgeting
services; fostering accrual of subjects at the site level; collecting data
and monitoring its accuracy; and working seamlessly with both trial
sponsors and participating practices.
Contact Information:
Liz Conway
(901) 435-5570
lconway@sosacorn.com
http://www.ACORNresearch.net
Deborah D. Coble
901-683-0055x1312
Cell: 901-831-1010
dcoble@sosacorn.com
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