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Updated: Jul 14, 2026

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Adaptation of Semiautomated Circulating Tumor Cell (CTC) Assays for Clinical and Preclinical Research Applications
Published on: February 28, 2014
Summary from the Kidney Cancer Association's Inaugural Think Thank: Coalition for a Cure.
Brian Rini1, E Jason Abel2, Laurence Albiges3
1Medicine Department, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN.
Clinical Genitourinary Cancer
|December 28, 2020
Summary
Experts convened to address challenges in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) care, focusing on improving patient outcomes and advancing research toward a cure for this common kidney cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Urology
- Translational Research
Background:
- Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) affects nearly 74,000 individuals annually in the U.S.
- Significant progress in surgical techniques, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy has improved outcomes.
- Despite advancements, a global cure for RCC remains elusive, necessitating further research and improved patient care strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and address critical gaps hindering progress in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) treatment and patient care.
- To foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including clinicians, researchers, industry representatives, and patient advocates.
- To propose actionable projects aimed at accelerating the development of a cure for RCC.
Main Methods:
- Convened an inaugural "Think Tank: Coalition for a Cure" session involving 27 specialists.
- Facilitated discussions on key areas: screening, imaging, rare RCC subtypes, combination therapies, and patient response.
- Summarized expert discussions, clinical challenges, and proposed collaborative initiatives.
Main Results:
- Identified critical clinical challenges across screening, diagnostics, treatment modalities, and understanding of rare RCC subtypes.
- Highlighted the need for innovative combination drug therapies and personalized treatment approaches.
- Emphasized the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration to overcome existing barriers in RCC care.
Conclusions:
- The "Think Tank" identified crucial areas for advancement in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) research and clinical practice.
- Proposed collaborative projects aim to accelerate progress towards a cure and enhance patient care.
- Continued multi-stakeholder engagement is vital for making a significant impact on the future of RCC treatment.
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