Abstract
ITCC was created in 2003 as a European network to support the introduction of new therapies into the paediatric cancer population. There are two core arms to the network. Firstly a biology programme to evaluate new compounds in a preclinical setting with the aim of prioritising drugs for further clinical evaluation. Secondly a network of clinical centres in Europe able to deliver high quality Phase I and II clinical trials.
To date nine research laboratories are participating in the biology programme linked by a consortium agreement. These laboratories include specialist units focusing on rhabdomyodsarcoma, Ewings sarcoma and osteosacrcoma. A large biological resource of tumour samples, cell lines and gene profile data is available through this network. The clinical trials programme has identified and accredited 36 centres in six EU Member States to conduct clinical trials.
ITCC has become recognised as the major academic network for drug development in paediatric cancer in Europe. Strong collaborations have been forged with the pharmaceutical industry, and regulatory authorities to capitalise on the emerging EU legislation facilitating the development of drugs for children. We are also in a strong position to advise and partner with the major disease-specific groups developing Phase III trials in a range of tumours such that new therapies can be introduced appropriately into front-line treatment.
Correspondence should be addressed to Professor Stefan Bielack, Olgahospital, Klinikum Stuttgart, Bismarkstrasse 8, D-70176 Stuttgart, Germany. Email: s.bielack@klinikum_stuttgart.de
