Janine GriffithsA global first in brain cancer treatment is happening right here in East Leeds—at St James’s Hospital, home to one of the UK’s leading cancer research centres.
Ian Johnson, 50, a Senior Crown Prosecutor and father of two, has become the first person in the world to join a new phase of a pioneering brain cancer trial taking place at Leeds Teaching Hospitals. The trial is testing AZD1390, a drug designed to enhance the effects of radiotherapy by stopping cancer cells from repairing themselves after treatment.
Diagnosed with glioblastoma—an aggressive and often recurring form of brain cancer—in December 2023, Ian’s journey has taken him from shock to the frontline of a world-first medical study. “The diagnosis was a huge shock,” he said. “I’d always been healthy, with no medical issues before this.”
Following surgery and standard treatments, a scan revealed his tumour had returned. When chemotherapy proved ineffective, Ian was referred to the research team at St James’s, where he was offered the chance to join the AZD1390 trial.
Led by Professor Susan Short, Consultant Clinical Oncologist at Leeds Teaching Hospitals and the University of Leeds, the trial is part of the work being carried out at the NIHR Leeds Clinical Research Facility, located in the hospital’s renowned Bexley Wing. This wing not only delivers world-class cancer care but also serves as a key site for testing new treatments.
For Ian, who has a background in biology, the opportunity was both personal and meaningful. “I felt hopeful when I heard about the study,” he said. “It gave me another option, and I wanted to be part of something that could help future patients too.”
Since beginning treatment, Ian has been able to continue enjoying the things he loves—walking, birdwatching, and time with his family. “Apart from feeling more tired than usual, I haven’t had any major side effects. The care here has been incredible—supportive, kind, and always there to answer questions.”
This groundbreaking research taking place in East Leeds brings real hope not just to patients, but to the wider community. It reinforces the city’s growing reputation as a hub for medical innovation and reminds us of the power of local institutions to drive global change.
Professor Short said: “We are really pleased to be offering patients access to promising new treatments like AZD1390 here in Leeds. This part of the trial is an important step in improving care for people with brain cancer.”
And as Ian says, “Every new treatment has to be tested. I feel proud to be helping in that process. It’s given me hope—not just for myself, but for others in the future.”
