News

World-first clinical trial commences at Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital to treat cancer patients

May 12, 2026

A Phase 1 human clinical trial, the first of its kind in the world, has commenced on the Sunshine Coast to test the safety and effectiveness of a new investigational cancer treatment for patients with advanced solid tumours.

The trial is now open at Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital, giving eligible patients the opportunity to take part in early-stage research focused on safety, tolerability, and identifying the most appropriate dose of a novel therapy called ADCX-020. 

ADCX-020, which is classified as an antibody conjugate, works by combining a chemotherapy drug with a lab made protein designed to bind to the cancer cell and harness the patient's own immune system to fight cancer. This targeted therapy minimises the damage to normal tissue by delivering the chemotherapy directly to the tumour. 

Led by experienced clinicians and researchers, the first-in-human trial reflects Ramsay Health Care’s commitment to safe, reliable care, delivered with strong clinical oversight and a clear focus on patient wellbeing. 

Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital medical oncologist and trial Principal Investigator Dr Michelle Morris, said it was a significant milestone for both patients and the medical community. 

"To be at the forefront of a world-first trial like this, offering potential new hope for people with difficult-to-treat cancers, aligns with our commitment to delivering exceptional patient care and advancing medical innovation,” Dr Morris said. 

“Phase 1 trials play a critical role in ensuring that any future treatment is developed on a strong safety foundation. Aims of the study include identifying any side effects that may limit dosing and determining the safest dose to guide future Phase 2 trials.” 

Patients with various advanced solid tumours, including non-small cell lung cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, endometrial cancer, head and neck squamous cell cancer, renal cell cancer and esophogeal cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, prostate cancer, renal cell cancer and certain breast cancers, are eligible to participate in this clinical trial. 

The trial is sponsored by Adcytherix.