Nephroblastoma, also known as Wilms tumour (WT), is the most common kidney cancer in children and is most diagnosed between the ages of one and four years of age. While most children respond well to treatment, a significant number with more aggressive forms of the disease face a much higher risk of relapse or spread, highlighting the need for better tools to identify and treat these high-risk cases. Podocalyxin (PODXL) is a protein that plays an important role in kidney development. In many cancers, high levels of this protein are linked to more aggressive disease. In Wilms tumour, early findings suggest that a specific glyosylated form of this protein may be present (biomarker) in the most aggressive tumor cells.

In this PCMM-supported project, the research team will use a specialized antibody that can detect this unique form of podocalyxin. By examining tumour samples from patients, the research team aims to determine whether this biomarker can help identify tumours that are more likely to relapse or spread. If successful, this antibody, and the PODXL glycoepitope that it recognizes, could provide clinicians with a powerful new tool to better predict outcomes and tailor treatments accordingly.

In parallel, this project will also create a collection of living tumour models (organoids) grown from patient samples with both high and low levels of PODXL. These miniaturized versions of tumours replicate key features of the cancer and can be used to test new therapies in the lab. This living biobank will support future research to better understand Wilms tumour biology and to identify more effective, targeted treatments.