Activities of the European Retinoblastoma Group (EURBG)
In May 2024, leading European experts in retinoblastoma gathered for the 10th Annual Meeting of the European Retinoblastoma Group (EURBG) in Athens, Greece. This multidisciplinary group united to discuss the latest findings from collaborative research, support international clinical case discussions, and plan future joint projects aimed at improving outcomes for children with retinoblastoma.
One of the central initiatives of the EURBG is the Collaborative Study to Identify Biomarkers to Adjust Treatment Intensity for Children with Retinoblastoma (CoBioRB). The study is supported financially by Fight Kids Cancer. CobioRB is focused on identifying biomarkers that can help optimize retinoblastoma treatment. Researchers hypothesize that not all children with retinoblastoma require the same level of treatment intensity. The CoBioRB project seeks to explore genetic changes in retinoblastomas to identify which tumors are more aggressive and need more intensive therapy.
A significant area of research within the CoBioRB study is liquid biopsies, a non-invasive technique to assess tumor spread. Tumor cells release genetic material into the bloodstream, which can be analyzed to detect specific genetic changes. By combining the results of these liquid biopsies with clinical data, researchers aim to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the disease’s progression and treatment requirements.
The ultimate goal of this research is to identify prognostic biomarkers that can guide treatment decisions. For children with high-risk retinoblastoma, therapy could be intensified, while for those with lower-risk tumors, the treatment could be reduced. This approach would help minimize late-stage toxicity, offering a more personalized and targeted treatment plan.
The EURBG is committed to advancing collaborative research and improving the care and outcomes for children with retinoblastoma across Europe. Their work continues to push the boundaries of knowledge and treatment, aiming to provide the best possible care for every child affected by this rare eye cancer.