RESEARCH PROGRAM
Solid Tumor
"We seek to elucidate the mechanisms that promote carcinogenesis and metastasis of solid tumors with the aim of identifying and validating new molecular markers and therapeutic targets."
DR. RUBÉN PÍO OSÉS DIRECTOR. SOLID TUMOR RESEARCH PROGRAM
Cancer remains one of the most important health problems in the world. In Europe, around 3.5 million new cases are diagnosed each year and almost 2 million people die of cancer. It is estimated that the number of cases diagnosed annually will increase to more than 4 million in the next 10 years. More than 95% of cancer cases are solid tumors and, of these, one in four are tumors derived from the respiratory tract, mainly lung cancer.
In the Solid Tumors Program we try to identify the molecular mechanisms underlying the transformation of a normal cell into a malignant tumor capable of invading other organs. From this knowledge, we develop strategies for early diagnosis and treatment accompanied by predictive markers of response or resistance that allow a more personalized clinical management of the oncological patient.
To carry out our research we have access to in vitro and in vivo models, collections of clinical samples and methods and devices for genetic, cellular and imaging analysis.
In line with the strategic plan of the Cancer Center of the Universidad de Navarra (CCUN), our priority is to translate the research of the Solid Tumors Program to clinical practice through the application of personalized medicine. Therefore, our research team has a strong multidisciplinary character, with an outstanding participation of clinical researchers. In addition, we maintain close collaboration with the departments of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra involved in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients.
We also actively participate in collaborative networks and regional, national and international consortia, such as the Navarra Health Research Institute (IdisNA), the Spanish Lung Cancer Group (GECP), the Center for Biomedical Research Network in Cancer (CIBERONC), International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC - Staging and Prognostic Factors Commission), International Early Lung Cancer Action Program (I-ELCAP) or European Network for the Study of Cholangiocarcinoma (ENS-CCA), among others.
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Objectives of the Solid Tumor Program
Understanding the mechanisms involved in the origin of solid tumors
We investigate the molecular processes that promote carcinogenesis and metastasis of solid tumors.
Develop diagnostic and predictive markers of response
We identify and validate markers that help in the early detection of tumors or that allow the selection of the most appropriate treatment for each patient.
Identifying new therapeutic targets
We are looking for new molecular targets to develop more specific and effective therapeutic strategies.
NEW TREATMENTS
To understand the origin and development of solid tumors
We seek new treatments for tumor types for which there are no suitable therapeutic options, as well as for tumors that have developed resistance to treatment.
Solid Tumor Program Research Groups
We seek to improve therapeutic alternatives against cancer
Adhesion and metastasis
Knowledge of the genetic and epigenetic molecular mechanisms with metastatic and/or recurrent potential of tumors.
Biomarkers and new therapeutic targets in lung cancer
Search for diagnostic, prognostic and predictive markers in cancer and new therapeutic targets in lung cancer.
Predictive markers of response
Discovery of aspects of direct clinical applicability in the field of lung cancer.
Preclinical models and analysis tools
Development of new image acquisition techniques and their use for the diagnosis and characterization of cancerous processes.
Oncogenes and effector targets
Identification of new molecular targets in KRAS-dependent tumors and discovery of innovative therapeutic strategies for these tumors.
Advanced therapies for pediatric solid tumors
Development of new therapeutic strategies for childhood brain tumors and sarcomas.
FROM THE LABORATORY TO THE PATIENT
Cutting-edge translational research
In order for our research to reach the cancer patient, we work in very close collaboration with the departments of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra involved in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. We are part of the Multidisciplinary Areas of the Cancer Center of the Universidad de Navarra (CCUN) and we interact continuously with the Departments of Pediatrics, Pneumology, Oncology, Thoracic Surgery, Neurology, Neurosurgery, Radiology, Anatomic Pathology, Clinical Biochemistry and Nuclear Medicine.
Early detection of lung cancer
We are part of the lung cancer early detection program of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra.
Immunotherapy combinations
We innovate in the design of new therapeutic strategies that enhance the antitumor response of our immune system.
Potentiation of radiotherapy
We evaluate the mechanisms of response to radiotherapy in order to enhance its efficacy and minimize its side effects.
Would you like to help us?
Thanks to the generosity of many people, the Cima Universidad de Navarra is a reality that strives to offer therapeutic solutions to achieve personalized medicine for patients.
Meet the research team
Scientific Activity of the
Solid Tumors Research Program
Latest scientific publications
- Endogenous retroelement activation by epigenetic therapy reverses the Warburg effect and elicits mitochondrial-mediated cancer cell death May 1, 2021 | Magazine: Cancer Discovery
- SRC family kinase (SFK) inhibitor dasatinib improves the antitumor activity of anti-PD-1 in NSCLC models Mar 1, 2021 | Magazine: Journal of Immunotherapy of Cancer
- The mutational load and a T-cell inflamed tumour phenotype identify ovarian cancer patients rendering tumour-reactive T cells from PD-1+ tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes Mar 1, 2021 | Magazine: British Journal of Cancer
- Whole exome sequencing characterization of individuals presenting extreme phenotypes of high and low risk of developing tobacco-induced lung adenocarcinoma Mar 1, 2021 | Magazine: Translational Lung Cancer Research