Malignant tumors are the second most common cause of death after cardiovascular diseases. VIVIT’s cancer research focuses on identifying biomarkers that can influence the therapeutic response and progression of cancer.

For this purpose, as part of an EU-funded project and in collaboration with several clinical centers, patients with advanced breast or colorectal cancer have been enrolled in prospective study cohorts. Various biomarkers analyzed in VIVIT’s molecular laboratory, including circulating free DNA and proteins, have been associated with cancer prognosis. In a current project, patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer are being recruited in cooperation with the surgical and oncological departments of the state hospitals in Feldkirch and Bregenz. Tissue samples are collected during surgery, and blood samples are taken before surgery and during treatment. These patients are being prospectively followed, with recurrence rates and mortality recorded. The collected data provides valuable insights into the progression of the disease and the effectiveness of treatments. By monitoring these patients over time, VIVIT aims to identify patterns and correlations between specific biomarkers and clinical outcomes. This information could pave the way for more personalized cancer therapies, enabling better prediction of treatment responses and improved patient management strategies.