Investigating the function of FZD7 in cholangiocarcinoma and determining the therapeutic benefit of targeting FZD7 with a novel FZD7-ADC

This project aims to improve outcomes for patients diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer), a rare but aggressive cancer with rising incidence locally. Many Welsh patients are diagnosed at advanced stages when surgery is not an option, leaving few effective treatments. Developing a new therapy that targets FZD7, a receptor/protein that drives cancer growth and spread, could directly benefit patients by improving survival and reducing treatment inequalities, with Welsh patients being amongst the first to benefit.

This project will characterise FZD7’s role in cholangiocarcinoma progression and metastatic spread, then assess the efficacy of a novel FZD7-targeting ADC. Focusing on Welsh patients allows early preclinical testing in the local population and ensures translation within NHS Wales infrastructure. The work aligns with CRW priorities to reduce cancer mortality inequalities and accelerate Wales-led therapeutic development.

This research has the potential to deliver more effective treatments, reduce metastasis-related deaths, and improve survival. In the longer term, it strengthens Wales-led innovation in cancer therapy and ensures local patients benefit first from novel targeted treatments.