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Current research into rare cancers

Saving lives through research

We’re determined to make sure rare cancers aren’t overlooked. That’s why we’re funding research and clinical trials for rare cancers, to increase our understanding of their biology and to improve how we treat them. Here are some examples of the work we’re doing right now.

Our current researchers

Looking for the best way to treat a rare cancer

Dr Kate Cwynarski is running one of the first clinical trials to investigate how we should treat people with diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL), a type of cancer that starts in the white blood cells, when it spreads to the brain or spine. This trial could lead to safer and more effective ways to treat people with this cancer.

Read about Cwynarski’s work

Stopping cancer's return

Dr Venkata Ramesh Bulusu in Cambridge is running a clinical trial for people with high-risk gastrointestinal stromal tumours who’ve had surgery. It’s testing whether giving these patients a drug called imatinib for five years is better at stopping the tumour coming back compared to giving the drug for three years. The trial is being run in collaboration with other researchers across Europe. 

Learn more about the trial

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Past research

Thanks to research, we've helped change the outlook for people with rare cancers.

Find out more about past research

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Patients' stories

Meet people like Oliver who have experienced first-hand how our research is making a difference. The life-saving research we do wouldn’t be possible without your support.

Read stories from people with rare cancers

Further information

Want to find more information about our research or rare cancers?

Find out more about clinical trials

More about the symptoms and treatments for rare cancers