The largest ever clinical trial of T cell therapy for solid tumors has ended, heralding a new era for precision T cell therapy. Led by a Singapore clinician-scientist, the multinational, phase III VANCE trial demonstrates that Singapore has the expertise and capabilities to run a large-scale global cell therapy trial. Results were published in the high impact factor journal, Annals on Oncology (JIF: 56.
7) , in October 2024. The planning, establishment and execution of the VANCE trial - including the large-scale manufacturing, storage, shipment, and delivery of high-quality T cells as treatments to patients' bedsides across the world - is a monumental task and achievement. This is testament to the expertise across disciplines and institutions involved, showcasing Singapore's ability to accomplish very complex cell therapy at the highest level.
" Professor Toh Han Chong, VANCE trial lead and study first author, Senior Consultant, Division of Medical Oncology and Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Strategic Partnerships), National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) "This international T cell therapy trial driven by Singapore's biotech and the National Cancer Centre Singapore represents a significant milestone. The delivery of high-quality T cells at large scale has been a major barrier for extending the applications of these therapies. To have achieved this goal when T cell therapy was in its infancy makes this Singapore-led achievement even more commendable," said Professor Cliona Roon.