Oncology & Hematology

The Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum (LUMC) conducts extensive trials in cancer and blood‑cell disorders, focusing on solid tumors such as non‑small cell lung cancer, breast, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers, as well as hematologic malignancies including acute myeloid leukemia and various lymphomas. Studies aim to test new immunotherapies, targeted agents, and combination regimens to improve survival and quality of life.

  • Investigating checkpoint inhibitor combinations in lung and bladder cancer
  • Evaluating bispecific antibodies for B‑cell lymphomas
  • Assessing novel CAR‑T cell products for relapsed/refractory lymphoma
  • Testing neoadjuvant chemotherapy strategies for resectable pancreatic cancer

These efforts position LUMC as a hub for innovative oncology research in the Netherlands.

Cardiovascular & Metabolic

Trials at LUMC address heart disease and metabolic disorders, including atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, atrial fibrillation, and type 1 diabetes mellitus. The focus is on evaluating novel lipid‑lowering agents, anticoagulation strategies, and metabolic therapies to reduce events such as myocardial infarction and stroke.

  • Comparing short‑term dual antiplatelet therapy after PCI in patients with atrial fibrillation
  • Testing inclisiran for cardiovascular risk reduction
  • Studying metabolic outcomes of novel insulin‑preserving treatments in recent‑onset type 1 diabetes
  • Assessing renal outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular comorbidities

The cardiovascular program integrates clinical care with translational research to advance preventive cardiology.

Immunology & Autoimmune Diseases

LUMC’s immunology portfolio explores therapies for autoimmune conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and myasthenia gravis. Trials evaluate complement inhibitors, B‑cell targeting agents, and immune‑modulating biologics to achieve disease control and organ preservation.

  • Evaluating iptacopan in complement‑mediated glomerulopathies
  • Assessing efgartigimod in generalized myasthenia gravis
  • Testing novel anti‑IL‑5 therapy for eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis
  • Investigating JAK inhibitor safety in rheumatoid arthritis

These studies reflect LUMC’s commitment to translating immunologic insights into patient‑focused treatments.

Infectious Diseases & Antimicrobial Strategies

The site conducts research on bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections, including Clostridioides difficile, malaria, and emerging viral pathogens such as SARS‑CoV‑2. Objectives include testing new antibiotics, vaccine candidates, and antiviral immunotherapies to improve outcomes and curb resistance.

  • Phase II trial of a novel oral antibiotic for C. difficile infection
  • Vaccine efficacy study against invasive Escherichia coli disease
  • Evaluation of antiviral T‑cell therapy for post‑transplant CMV infection
  • Prophylactic antimalarial regimen in travelers

LUMC’s infectious disease program leverages its hospital setting to address urgent public‑health challenges.

Transplantation & Graft Management

Research at LUMC focuses on kidney and liver transplantation, aiming to reduce rejection and improve graft longevity. Studies assess agents such as imlifidase and complement inhibitors, as well as personalized immunosuppression protocols.

  • Long‑term graft failure‑free survival after imlifidase desensitization
  • Pharmacokinetic‑guided dosing of emicizumab in hemophilia A patients undergoing transplantation
  • Safety of C1‑INH in traumatic brain injury patients awaiting transplant
  • Evaluation of novel biomarkers for early detection of renal graft rejection

These initiatives aim to expand the donor pool and enhance outcomes for transplant recipients at LUMC.

Neurology & Neurodegenerative Disorders

LUMC supports trials targeting neurological conditions such as early Parkinson’s disease, cerebral amyloid angiopathy, and brain metastases. The goal is to test disease‑modifying agents, advanced imaging techniques, and intraoperative fluorescence tools to improve diagnosis and therapy.

  • Assessing disease‑modifying therapy in early Parkinson’s disease
  • Fluorescence‑guided resection of colorectal brain metastases
  • Safety and efficacy of novel anti‑amyloid agents in cerebral amyloid angiopathy
  • Pharmacokinetic study of neuroprotective compounds after traumatic brain injury

The neurology program integrates clinical trials with cutting‑edge diagnostics to advance patient care.

Diagnostic & Surgical Innovation

The department of Heelkunde at LUMC advances surgical and diagnostic technologies, including anesthesia, intra‑operative imaging, and fluorescence‑guided procedures. Trials evaluate the feasibility of new tracers, robotic assistance, and point‑of‑care diagnostics to enhance precision and safety.

  • Feasibility of SGM‑101 fluorescence endoscopy for T1 rectal lesions
  • Evaluation of a tumor‑targeted fluorescent tracer for intra‑operative brain metastasis detection
  • Comparison of magnesium hydroxide versus macrogol for opioid‑induced constipation in cancer patients
  • Assessment of rapid‑start versus delayed chemotherapy initiation in metastatic pancreatic cancer

These projects illustrate LUMC’s dedication to integrating innovative tools into everyday surgical practice.