Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 4, 2026

Automated Protocols for Macromolecular Crystallization at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology
Published on: January 24, 2018
The UMBRELLA SIOP-RTSG 2016 Wilms tumour pathology and molecular biology protocol
Gordan M Vujanić1, Manfred Gessler2,3, Ariadne H A G Ooms4
1Department of Pathology, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar. gvujanic@sidra.org.
Abstract:
On the basis of the results of previous national and international trials and studies, the Renal Tumour Study Group of the International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP-RTSG) has developed a new study protocol for paediatric renal tumours: the UMBRELLA SIOP-RTSG 2016 protocol (the UMBRELLA protocol). Currently, the overall outcomes of patients with Wilms tumour are excellent, but subgroups with poor prognosis and increased relapse rates still exist. The identification of these subgroups is of utmost importance to improve treatment stratification, which might lead to reduction of the direct and late effects of chemotherapy. The UMBRELLA protocol aims to validate new prognostic factors, such as blastemal tumour volume and molecular markers, to further improve outcome. To achieve this aim, large, international, high-quality databases are needed, which dictate optimization and international harmonization of specimen handling and comprehensive sampling of biological material, refine definitions and improve logistics for expert review. To promote broad implementation of the UMBRELLA protocol, the updated SIOP-RTSG pathology and molecular biology protocol for Wilms tumours has been outlined, which is a consensus from the SIOP-RTSG pathology panel.
Insights
The UMBRELLA protocol refines Wilms tumour treatment by identifying high-risk patient subgroups using new prognostic factors. This aims to improve outcomes and reduce chemotherapy side effects in paediatric renal tumours.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Nephrology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Existing Wilms tumour treatments yield excellent outcomes, yet specific patient subgroups face poor prognoses and higher relapse rates.
- Identifying these high-risk subgroups is crucial for refining treatment stratification and minimizing chemotherapy's adverse effects.
- Previous national and international trials informed the development of a new study protocol.
Framework:
- The UMBRELLA SIOP-RTSG 2016 protocol (UMBRELLA protocol) is a new international study for pediatric renal tumors.
- It aims to validate novel prognostic factors, including blastemal tumor volume and molecular markers, for improved patient outcomes.
- The protocol emphasizes the need for large, high-quality international databases.
Implementation:
- Optimization and international harmonization of specimen handling and comprehensive biological material sampling are critical.
- Refined definitions and improved logistics for expert review are essential for protocol success.
- An updated SIOP-RTSG pathology and molecular biology protocol for Wilms tumors has been established.
Implications:
- The UMBRELLA protocol seeks to further improve outcomes for Wilms tumour patients.
- It facilitates better treatment stratification, potentially reducing both immediate and long-term chemotherapy-related toxicities.
- Broad implementation of the protocol is supported by a consensus pathology and molecular biology guideline.
Related Concept Videos
What is Conservation Biology?
Molecular Models
Predicting Molecular Geometry
Biological Effects of Radiation
Molecular Orbital Theory II
Molecular Orbital Theory I

