Caris Life Sciences, a leading innovator in molecular science focused on fulfilling the promise of precision medicine, announced today that Spain's Vall d´Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO) has joined Caris' Precision Oncology Alliance (The Alliance/POA). The Alliance is a collaborative network of leading cancer centers that work together to advance comprehensive cancer profiling and establish standards of care for molecular testing in oncology through research focused on predictive and prognostic markers that improve the clinical outcomes of patients with cancer.

Established in 2006, VHIO is a leading comprehensive research cancer center of excellence, where scientists and research physicians adopt a purely translational research model, working together as multidisciplinary teams to both accelerate and advance personalized and targeted therapies against cancer. Undertaking one of Spain´s most dynamic cancer research programs, VHIO is dedicated to delivering on the promise of precision medicine in oncology – turning cancer discovery into more effective treatments and better practice for the care of their patients.

"We are excited to welcome the Vall d' Hebron Institute of Oncology into the Alliance as we begin to expand the Caris POA network outside the U.S.," said Chadi Nabhan, M.D., MBA, FACP, Chairman of the Caris Precision Oncology Alliance. "International members like VHIO, focused on advancing personalized and targeted therapies against cancer through innovation and research, support the Alliance's goal to expand broad-based collaboration among our member institutions in precision oncology research to improve outcomes for cancer patients worldwide."

"Our mission to provide improvements in the field of oncological diseases, and translate discoveries into medical benefits is enriched through partnerships like the Caris Precision Oncology Alliance. I strongly believe in joining forces, nurturing and developing partnerships, and exchanging data to overcome the many challenges that hamper our efforts in solving cancer sooner," said Josep Tabernero, M.D., Ph.D., VHIO's Director. "Understanding the unique molecular characteristics of tumors offers insights that can be used to better prevent and treat cancer for patients everywhere."

The Caris Precision Oncology Alliance includes over 40 cancer centers and academic institutions. These institutions have early access to Caris MAI (Molecular Artificial Intelligence) offerings, and establish evidence-based standards for cancer profiling and molecular testing in oncology. By leveraging the comprehensive genomic, transcriptomic and proteomic profiling available through the Caris Molecular Intelligence platform, Caris seeks to provide this network with the ability to prioritize therapeutic options and determine which clinical trial opportunities may benefit their patients. POA members are also able to integrate with a growing portfolio of biomarker directed trials sponsored by Biopharma.

"Partnering with international institutes like Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology expands the capabilities for all Alliance members to access pioneering research that can both advance and accelerate personalized and targeted therapies to better treat cancer," said Brian J. Brille, Vice Chairman of Caris Life Sciences.