Fort Scott

Researchers are collecting and storing tissue and blood samples from patients with various types of cancer to create models that help study cancer and test new treatments. This observational study focuses on patients with confirmed or suspected cancer diagnoses, including solid tumors and hematologic malignancies, to improve laboratory research and drug development. The study involves obtaining tumor tissue and blood samples during medically necessary procedures related to the patient's cancer treatment. These samples will be preserved using xenograft models (transplantation into another species) or cell cultures for future analysis. Sample collection is timed carefully around treatment cycles to ensure tissue viability. Participants will undergo tissue and blood collection as part of their clinical care, with no additional procedures solely for the study. Researchers will review pathology and flow cytometry reports to confirm viable cancer cells in the samples. The main outcome is the successful procurement and storage of these biological materials for research over a follow-up period of up to five years.

Researchers are evaluating the effects of several targeted drugs—vismodegib, FAK inhibitor GSK2256098, capivasertib, and abemaciclib—on patients with progressive meningiomas that have specific genetic mutations. This phase II trial focuses on tumors that are growing, spreading, or worsening despite prior treatment. The study aims to measure how well these drugs work in slowing tumor progression and improving response rates, especially in patients whose tumors have mutations in SMO, PTCH1, NF2, AKT1, PIK3CA, PTEN, and CDK-related pathways. Patients are assigned to one of four treatment groups based on their tumor's genetic mutation profile. Those with SMO or PTCH1 mutations receive vismodegib daily by mouth, those with NF2 mutations receive the FAK inhibitor GSK2256098 twice daily, patients with AKT1, PIK3CA, or PTEN mutations take capivasertib twice daily for four days each week, and those with CDK pathway alterations receive abemaciclib every 12 hours. Each treatment cycle is 28 days, continuing unless the disease worsens or side effects become unacceptable. After treatment ends, patients are followed every six months for up to five years. Participants undergo various assessments including imaging scans and genetic testing to confirm eligibility and monitor tumor status. Researchers track progression-free survival at six months and response rates up to two years. Safety is monitored through adverse event reporting and lab tests. The study also collects data on overall survival and treatment tolerability. Patients are carefully evaluated before and during treatment to ensure safety and measure the drugs' effects on tumor growth and patient health over time.