Amsterdam UMC leads €12 million lung cancer research project

New funding to advance immunotherapy treatment success

Amsterdam UMC's Cancer Center Amsterdam is leading the recently funded international research project, SPACETIME, which has been awarded €12 million by the European Union. This initiative aims to revolutionise the treatment of lung cancer, a disease that affects over 14,500 Dutch people annually, by enhancing the effectiveness of immunotherapy.

The SPACETIME project focuses on unravelling the complex microenvironment of lung tumours. By spatially mapping the interactions between cancer cells, immune cells, and supportive cells within the tumour, researchers hope to predict which patients will benefit from immunotherapy. The project will span five years and involve 15 partners across seven European countries.

Dr Febe van Maldegem, a researcher at Amsterdam UMC, emphasised the importance of understanding the organised structure of tumours rather than viewing them as merely uncontrolled cell growth. The data collected will be analysed through advanced computer models to identify patterns that can predict treatment success, potentially sparing patients from unnecessary therapies.

Amsterdam putting in the groundwork

Amsterdam has multiple cancer institutes, including the UMC’s cancer centre and the Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI). Together, they form the cornerstone of the Dutch life sciences and health community. They stand as a significant force in global anti-cancer innovation, reflecting a collaborative effort across various sectors and a commitment to advancing technologies that can save lives.

SPACETIME, using mapping and data tech advancements is part of the EU's broader Mission on Cancer, which aims to improve the lives of over 3 million people by 2030. Researchers from the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam are also using mapping technology to understand brain DNA. These projects are a step toward faster more personalised treatment and successful patient outcomes.

Read more about The Netherlands' leading global anti-cancer innovations