CapnoPharm GmbH, today announced that it will support the IMPACT consortium, a major European cancer research project, with its CapnoPen^® technology.

IMPACT – Improving the outcome of Peritoneal and Pleural metastases using Aerosolized ChemoTherapy – is a six-year clinical research project funded with 10.3 Mio € through Horizon Europe under the EU Mission on Cancer. Coordinated by Ghent University, the project runs from July 2026 to June 2032 and brings together 13 organizations from across Europe. The consortium combines expertise in clinical research, surgical oncology, patient engagement, health economics, medical technology, implementation and policy. The core of the project is conducting three Europe-wide randomized controlled trials.

CapnoPharm will contribute its experience at the crossroads of medical engineering, pharmaceutical technology, and cancer medicine to the multidisciplinary program. Its participation will support the project’s work on the technologies and practical knowledge needed to deliver treatment directly into the abdominal or pleural cavity as a fine aerosol. The project will assess the efficacy and safety of aerosolized drug delivery (PIPAC and PITAC) and its effect on patients’ quality of life. It will also investigate whether electrostatic precipitation can improve aerosolized treatment distribution and penetration into tumor tissue.

A clinical program involving more than 500 patients

IMPACT will conduct three multinational, randomized clinical trials involving more than 500 patients at over 30 clinical sites in seven EU countries. The trials will focus on colorectal cancer with peritoneal metastases, gastric cancer with peritoneal metastases, and malignant pleural effusion.

The research extends beyond clinical outcomes. Patients, relatives and caregivers will contribute throughout the project, including to the design and implementation of the clinical research. IMPACT will also examine patient needs and expectations, cost-effectiveness, healthcare professional acceptance, sustainability, and the practical requirements for introducing aerosolized drug delivery in different European healthcare systems.

Building evidence for future cancer care

Peritoneal metastases occur when cancer spreads to the lining and surfaces of the abdominal cavity, and affect 1.1 million new patients worldwide every year. Malignant pleural effusion is a build-up of fluid around the lungs caused by cancer. Both conditions can be difficult to treat and can have a major effect on survival, symptoms and quality of life.

IMPACT is designed to determine whether aerosolized drug delivery can improve treatment effectiveness while preserving quality of life. Until the trials are completed, the potential benefits remain under investigation. The project will generate evidence to inform future clinical decision-making and evaluate what would be required for wider adoption if the results support its use.

Click here to learn more about IMPACT