Key Highlights:

• 2695 sarcoma diagnoses in Australia were projected by the AIHW In 2024 with no quantifiable advances to treatment options and survival outcomes for over three decades.
• Sarcoma is the leading cause of cancer-related death in Australians aged 15-29. (AIHW, 2025)
• This groundbreaking research project has the potential to change lives by focussing on screening the largest global patient cohort in the world.
• Sarcoma is one of the most challenging and aggressive cancers, affecting our young disproportionately.
• All sarcoma tumour subtypes will be screened in this new undertaking with a view to discovering new treatment options.

Launch of the MoST/CASP-SARC Initiative

Sydney, Australia – 5 February 2025.   Omico is excited to announce the launch of the MoST/CASP-SARC Initiative, a pivotal new research project aimed at transforming treatment options for sarcoma—one of the most challenging and aggressive cancers.

This initiative is designed to enhance our understanding of sarcoma and drive the development of more personalised and effective therapies. The research will focus on three key areas:

1. Harnessing Real-World Data: Over 14,000 patients with advanced cancers have already been screened by the Molecular Cancer Screening Program (MoST) and the Cancer Screening Program (CaSP), with sarcoma accounting for the largest patient group.  By analysing data from over 1,500 sarcoma patients enrolled in the MoST/CASP program, including the world first IL23 study conducted in 2019/20 researchers aim to evaluate current treatment efficacy, identify critical gaps in care, and explore strategies to improve patient outcomes. By 20226 it is anticipated over 3000 patients will be recruited to the program.
2. Studying Patient Samples: Through the examination of biological samples from past MoST-led trials, researchers will seek to uncover key biomarkers—molecular indicators that explain why some treatments succeed while others fail. These insights will be instrumental in guiding future therapies.
3. Targeting Proteins for Personalised Treatments: Scientists will investigate specific proteins in sarcoma patients that could serve as targets for innovative, precision-based therapies. This approach has the potential to revolutionise treatment strategies and significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by sarcoma.

A United Commitment to Advancing Sarcoma Research

Omico’s Chief of Science and Strategy, Professor David Thomas said “We are witnessing a golden age in drug development for cancer, leading to more effective treatments than ever before. This progress is only set to accelerate with the emergence of antibody drug conjugates, now targeting protein targets widely found in many cancer types.

“It is imperative that we ensure that patients with rare cancers don’t miss out, which is why we are focussing on sarcomas here. This project will be an important contribution globally to the development of new therapeutics for patients with sarcomas.”

Colin Brading, A/Chairman, Cooper-Rice Brading Foundation said “The launch of the MoST/CASP-SARC programme represents a major step forward in the collective mission to defeat sarcoma, and we are immensely proud to support this groundbreaking work alongside the Tom Hardyman Memorial Sarcoma Research Fund and Tour de Cure Spring Lunch, on behalf of the Andrew Dreverman Legacy for Sarcoma Research.

At CRBF we strive to provide funding to improve outcomes for those diagnosed with this devastating cancer. This initiative provides science-based hope for more effective, personalised treatments. By leveraging real-world data, studying patient samples, and exploring targeted therapies, Omico Australia’s research has the power to change lives.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to honouring the legacy of three remarkable young men who lost their lives to sarcoma by driving meaningful progress in research.”

For more information, visit: www.Omico.com.au (ABN 67 627 640 733)

For Further Information, Contact:

• Professor David Thomas, Chief of Science and Strategy, Omico

Media Enquiries:

Omico
contact@omico.org.au,
1800 954 350

Cooper Rice-Brading Foundation
Phil Baker pbaker@crbf.org.au
(02) 9357 5378