May 13, 2026, ONTARIO — Four new research studies funded by the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) will deliver cutting-edge innovations by maximizing the impact of existing research and making the most out of patient contributions.
OICR is supporting the studies through CATALYST, a new funding stream for research that leverages available patient data and donated samples to advance new insights about detecting, diagnosing and treating cancer.
Led by top Ontario researchers, the first four CATALYST studies explore a range of groundbreaking approaches, from a blood test that could predict the chances of head and neck cancers returning, to evaluating whether a common diabetes medication can help prevent blood cancers. All four make use of available datasets, building off existing research to take the next step toward transforming clinical practice.
“It’s important we maximize every opportunity to push new discoveries past the finish line so they can make an impact on the lives of people with cancer,” says Dr. David Cescon, Scientific Director of OICR’s Clinical Translation research theme. “CATALYST was designed to do just that, while also honouring the patients who make research possible.”
Cancer patients are critical partners in cancer research, generously donating their time, insights and samples to enable new innovations.
“Patients who take part in research want to know that their participation is making a difference for the future of cancer care, and these studies are doing justice to their contributions,” says Vivian Simbul Sim, a cancer survivor and patient partner with Clinical Translation who helped review patient partnership plans for the CATALYST projects.
The first four CATALYST research studies include:
Each of these projects were rigorously evaluated through an iterative process, and they are poised to rapidly deliver on the study objectives.
“By reanalyzing samples and data that have already been collected using new and innovative methods, these studies are maximizing research efficiency and narrowing the gap between science and clinical practice,” says Dr. Lincoln Stein, OICR’s Acting Scientific Director. “Their work will make Ontario healthier and make the most of every dollar invested in our province’s world class research ecosystem.”
“In order to save and improve lives, we need to stay one step ahead of cancer,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “Our government is proud to support the Ontario Institute of Cancer Research and commend their CATALYST program that will drive life-saving discoveries in cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatments.”
OICR is funded by the Government of Ontario. As the province’s cancer research institute, we take on the biggest challenges in cancer research and deliver real-world solutions to find cancer earlier and treat it more effectively. We are committed to helping people living with cancer, as well as future generations, live longer and healthier lives. For more information visit http://www.oicr.on.ca.
The views expressed are those of OICR and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Province of Ontario.