Clinical Research
Advancing the standard of care through clinical trials
Clinical Research includes all types of research involving human participants or their data to improve medical knowledge. This can include observational studies, epidemiological research, health outcomes studies, and clinical trials.
Increase in the number of clinical therapeutic trial accruals since 2024
Cancer clinical trials (adult + pediatric)
Patients enrolled in an interventional clinical trial
Participants on observational trials
When Less is More: Deintensification Trials
While most cancer clinical trials test whether adding treatments can improve outcomes, UVM Cancer Center researchers are also leading deintensification studies that ask the question: can less treatment be just as effective? These trials explore reducing dose, shortening duration, or removing phases of therapy to maintain excellent outcomes while improving quality of life. For many patients—especially in rural Vermont—fewer side effects and trips to the hospital for care make a meaningful difference. Here are two of the more than a dozen deintensification trails that are currently enrolling at UVM Cancer Center.
Reducing Treatment Burden for Patients With Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma (cSCC)
Radiation oncologist Chris Anker, M.D., is leading a UVM Cancer Center trial that offers moderate‑risk cSCC patients the option to skip radiation and enroll in structured surveillance, using exams and ultrasounds to closely monitor for recurrence. For high‑risk patients, the MOHSAHRTSS study provides a five‑session short‑course radiation alternative in place of the typical 20–30 treatments. Together, these trials aim to maintain excellent outcomes while easing travel demands and minimizing toxicity for patients.
Testing a Gentler Approach for HPV‑Related Throat Cancer
A new clinical trial at UVM Cancer Center, led by Mirabelle Sajisevi, M.D., is exploring whether patients with HPV‑positive throat cancers can safely receive less intensive therapy after surgery. These tumors often occur in younger adults and respond exceptionally well to treatment, and the study uses risk‑based care and advanced HPV tumor DNA testing to maintain outcomes while reducing long‑term toxicity. The trial also improves access for rural patients by minimizing travel and aligning closely with standard care.
Improving Outcomes for Children with Leukemia
UVM Cancer Center participated in a major national clinical trial exploring whether standard‑risk childhood ALL could be treated more effectively by pairing chemotherapy with the immunotherapy blinatumomab. Led on site by Jessica Heath, M.D., UVM Cancer Center's associate director of clinical and translational research, the study allowed children to receive a 24‑hour infusion at home, easing the burden for families in rural areas. Reported in 2025, the results showed striking improvements in survival and relapse rates—an exciting step forward for pediatric oncology.
What’s It Like to Be on a Cancer Clinical Trial? One Patient's Perspective
Rusty Ashmore and his wife and caregiver, Andrea, share what it was like to participate in a Phase 3 trial that tested two kinds of chemotherapy with radiation for glioblastoma—from managing appointments to navigating uncertainty together. They also offer thoughtful advice for future patients and caregivers, including the power of staying organized, asking questions, and taking good notes along the way.
