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Growing interest in paediatric preclinical research: ITCC-P4 marks its 100th external inquiry
The inquiries range from initial exploratory discussions to concrete requests for preclinical studies and collaborative research projects. They reflect the growing demand for clinically relevant paediatric cancer models, integrated molecular and biological data, and scientific expertise in the preclinical development of new therapies for children with cancer.
Through its network of CRO partners and paediatric oncology experts, ITCC-P4 supports the scientific selection of suitable models, the design and implementation of in vitro and in vivo studies, and the interpretation of study results.
“Reaching 100 inquiries is an encouraging indication that there is a clear need for an integrated paediatric preclinical research platform,” says Professor Gilles Vassal, Chief Operating Officer of ITCC-P4 gGmbH. “We are grateful to all researchers and partners who have approached us and look forward to turning further scientific ideas into meaningful preclinical research.”
The milestone reflects the joint efforts of the entire ITCC-P4 community. The platform combines the model-specific, scientific and operational expertise of its partner CROs with molecular data and paediatric oncology expertise from its wider academic network. Together, these capabilities enable integrated preclinical study planning and delivery for academic and industry partners.
*Update*
September 30, 2026
The Innovative Health Initiative (IHI) has featured this milestone in a new article on the development of ITCC-P4. The article explores the platform’s transition from an IMI2-funded project into an operational non-profit organisation, the growing demand from academic and industry partners, and ITCC-P4’s role in enabling innovative preclinical research in childhood cancer.
It also highlights the importance of sustaining the shared infrastructure and central capabilities that make individual research and drug development projects possible.