basket trial
A clinical trial design that enrolls patients based on shared molecular characteristics rather than cancer type.
Full Definition
A basket trial is an innovative clinical trial design that groups patients according to specific molecular alterations or biomarkers regardless of their primary tumor site or histology. This approach allows for the evaluation of targeted therapies across multiple cancer types that share common genetic drivers. Participants are typically assigned to different 'baskets' based on their molecular profile, with each basket representing a specific genetic alteration. This design is particularly valuable in precision oncology for testing treatments against rare mutations that occur across various cancer types, enabling more efficient drug development and regulatory approval pathways.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate; distinguish from umbrella trials in methodology sections
In Context
- "The NCI-MATCH basket trial enrolled patients with various cancers harboring specific mutations." — Clinical trial protocol
- "Basket trial designs have accelerated drug approvals for tumor-agnostic indications." — Regulatory affairs document