Observational study on mechanobiology in breast cancer

A Master Protocol Empowering Mechanobiology Translation Research in Breast Cancer

Observational IFOM ETS - The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology · NCT04625023

This study is looking at how breast cancer cells interact with the body to see if understanding these relationships can help improve treatment outcomes for patients.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment1500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorIFOM ETS - The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology Academic / other
Locations10 sites (Bergamo, Bergamo and 9 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04625023 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

METAMECH is an observational protocol designed to enhance collaboration between basic and clinical research in breast cancer. It will follow a cohort of at least 500 patients over their treatment journey, collecting longitudinal clinical data and samples. The study aims to understand the interactions between tumor and host cells to improve patient outcomes, including reducing recurrence rates and enhancing survival. Patients will be enrolled at two therapeutic checkpoints: before tumor sampling or before starting any treatment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with a diagnosis or strong suspicion of breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with other current malignancies or those unable to comply with the study protocol may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies and outcomes for breast cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in similar collaborative approaches, but this specific protocol is novel in its comprehensive mechanobiology focus.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Verification that the patient could not be reached for informed consent in accordance with applicable national regulations or, alternatively, TIER1 written Informed consent.
2. Patients ≥18 years of age.
3. Previous diagnosis of breast cancer, or a strong suspicion of BC based on clinical and radiological findings.
4. ECOG Performance status \< 2 (only for TIER1-2).

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Any other current malignancy or malignancy diagnosed or relapsed within the past 5 years (other than non-melanomatous skin cancer, stage 0 melanoma in situ, and in situ cervical cancer)
2. Patient unable to comply with the study protocol owing to psychological, social or geographical reasons.
3. Known Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) or syphilis infection.

Where this trial is running

Bergamo, Bergamo and 9 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Breast Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.