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Four new studies can start with KiKa funding

Four promising research projects are launching that will contribute to better care for children with cancer, with support from KiKa. The projects focus on faster diagnoses, less invasive check-ups, more effective treatments, and early detection of cancer in at-risk groups.

‘Thanks to KiKa's funding, we can take important steps in our mission to cure all children with cancer, with an optimal quality of life,’ says Prof. Dr. René Medema, Chief Scientific Officer of the Princess Máxima Center. ‘With these new projects, we can work on developing better diagnostics, treatment, and aftercare for children with cancer and their families.’

Detecting fungal infections

Prof. Dr. Wim Tissing, in collaboration with UMC Utrecht, aims to investigate a new way to detect dangerous fungal infections faster and more accurately in children with weakened immune systems. By analyzing genetic material from fungus in blood and lung fluid, the researchers hope to offer a kinder and more effective alternative to current, sometimes invasive diagnostics. This could lead to more targeted treatment and fewer side effects.

Are scans always necessary?

Another project focuses on the follow-up of children treated for lymphoma. By studying whether regular radiological diagnostics – such as ultrasounds or MRI scans – are always necessary, Dr. Friederike Meyer-Wentrup, Dr. Auke Beishuizen, and Prof. Dr. Rutger Jan Nievelstein aim to contribute to a less burdensome and cost-effective follow-up program. This could significantly improve the quality of life for children with cancer and their families.

Bone marrow better mapped

Dr. Judith Boer and Prof. Dr. Monique den Boer will investigate why immunotherapy is ineffective in some children with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). By better mapping the make-up of the bone marrow, they aim to improve the laboratory model. In the future, this research may lead to more personalized treatment for children with ALL.

Blood test for lymphoma

Lastly, Prof. Dr. Roland Kuiper and Dr. Jan Loeffen, in collaboration with Erasmus MC, have developed a new blood test that could detect lymphoma at an early stage in children with a hereditary predisposition or immune disorder. In this project, they will further investigate the sensitivity and application of the blood test in a larger group of children. Early detection allows for an early start of treatment, which can increase the survival rate and quality of life of children with a hereditary predisposition to lymphoma.