Bainbridge Island

Researchers are collecting and storing tissue and blood samples from patients with various types of cancer to help create better models for studying cancer and testing new cancer drugs. This observational study focuses on patients with hematopoietic and lymphatic system neoplasms, malignant solid tumors, metastatic malignant solid tumors, and recurrent malignant solid tumors. The goal is to procure biological tissues and materials to develop preclinical cancer models for future laboratory analysis. During the study, tumor tissue and blood samples are collected during medical procedures required for the patients cancer treatment. These samples are then preserved using methods such as xenograft models, where tissues are transplanted to another species, or in vitro cell cultures. This process allows for future scientific study without additional invasive procedures beyond routine clinical care. Participants will be involved in routine clinical procedures during which tissue and blood samples are collected. Researchers will store these specimens and monitor their use in creating cancer models over a period of up to five years. The main outcome measured is the successful procurement and storage of tissue and blood specimens for research purposes. Participation will continue as long as samples can be collected during clinical management, with no additional treatment or interventions required specifically for this study.

Researchers are evaluating patients with metastatic HER-2-positive breast cancer who are receiving trastuzumab-based therapy and are at risk of heart problems. The study includes two groups one large observational group taking beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, or ARBs alongside trastuzumab, and a smaller randomized group comparing the effects of carvedilol versus no treatment. The aim is to understand the occurrence of heart issues and whether carvedilol might help prevent cardiac side effects from chemotherapy. Participants are assigned to one of three arms based on their current medications. Patients not on beta blockers, ARBs, or ACE inhibitors are randomized to either receive carvedilol orally twice daily or no study intervention. Those already taking these heart medications enter an observational arm without additional treatment. Treatment and observation continue for up to 108 weeks unless disease progression or unacceptable side effects occur. Throughout the study, participants undergo heart function monitoring with echocardiograms every 12 weeks and provide blood samples for biomarker analysis. Researchers track the time to the first sign of heart dysfunction and any cardiac events, as well as adherence to medication and side effects. The study also collects data to develop models predicting heart risk and banks samples for future research. Participant involvement may last over two years with regular assessments to monitor safety and heart health.