“We Do Not Wait for Tomorrow’s Consensus”

An interview with Dr. Jens Nolting, Oncologist at the Hallwang Clinic, on the DNA of Personalized Precision Medicine, Germany’s Strategic Advantage, and the Next Generation of Immunotherapy.

As a representative of a new generation of cancer specialists, Dr. Jens Nolting is deeply committed to advancing personalized, immune-based treatment concepts. He is recognized as an expert in immuno-oncology, cancer immunology, and molecular oncology. Since 2017, he has been practicing as an oncologist at the Hallwang Clinic, combining clinical excellence with a strong focus on translational research.

Dr. Nolting, how would you describe the DNA of the Hallwang Clinic?

Dr. Jens Nolting: Hallwang Clinic is a place for individuals seeking highly individualized cancer treatment—particularly in cases of advanced or metastatic disease (Stage IV), when standard approaches reach their limits or are no longer sufficient. Our approach is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but a therapy strategy consistently aligned with the tumor biology, the dynamics of the disease, and the unique life situation of each individual patient.

Where does modern cancer treatment begin, in your view?

For us, modern oncology begins with a precise understanding of tumor biology. Cancer is a complex biological system. We analyze the underlying molecular mechanisms in great detail and derive from them the most appropriate and scientifically grounded therapeutic strategy.

Isn’t this level of precision already standard in oncology? Why are specialized centers like the Hallwang Clinic needed?

In theory, yes — but in practice, often not. Many treatment strategies still rely on established chemotherapy protocols that work on average but are not optimal for every individual patient. When second-line therapies fail, options are frequently considered limited too early. This is precisely where specialized centers come into play. They offer the diagnostic depth, clinical expertise, and structural flexibility to think beyond standard pathways. This does not mean ignoring guidelines — it means placing the individual tumor biology consistently at the center of decision-making. At the same time, promising therapeutic approaches are emerging worldwide from clinical research. However, due to regulatory barriers or lack of approval, these options often remain inaccessible to many patients. We are able to evaluate such therapies and — where appropriate — apply them responsibly in selected cases.

Why is the Hallwang Clinic able to go further than others?

Germany provides a clear yet flexible legal framework for medical decision-making and the use of pharmaceuticals. This creates the opportunity to responsibly apply advanced therapies within a secure and regulated environment—often before they become internationally established standards. At the same time, we adhere strictly to clinical evidence and always evaluate the individual benefit for each patient. Put simply: we do not wait for tomorrow’s consensus when today’s data already represent a meaningful option for the patient in front of us.

That likely explains the strong international interest in your clinic.

Absolutely. Many of our patients come to us from abroad, often with advanced-stage disease. Based on comprehensive molecular diagnostics, we develop individualized combination therapies. In many cases, this leads to significant clinical improvement — and in some cases even to long-term remissions that previously seemed unimaginable.

You have worked at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at Harvard Medical School and conducted research at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. Which developments in cancer research do you currently find most exciting?

I currently see three major pillars. First, personalized mRNA cancer vaccines, which train the immune system in a highly elegant way to recognize tumor-specific neoantigens. Second, antibody–drug conjugates, which are closing the gap between efficacy and precision targeting. Particularly exciting is the advancement of CAR-T cell therapies beyond hematologic malignancies toward solid tumors. New “dual” or “armored” CAR-T approaches are beginning to overcome biological barriers such as antigen loss or the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Conceptually, this represents a major step forward.

High-performance medicine is one aspect — but patients themselves are highly individual.

That is a crucial point. These highly specialized therapies can only realize their full potential within the right biological context. This is why we integrate targeted supportive measures — nutrition, micronutrients, stress regulation, physical activation, and approaches such as hyperthermia. These interventions improve tolerability, reduce side effects, and in many cases enhance the effectiveness of the primary cancer treatment. Another factor that makes a meaningful difference for many patients is the setting itself. The Hallwang Clinic is located in the scenic Black Forest region. The clean air and tranquil surroundings create ideal conditions for recovery and well-being. Patients from around the world find a place of calm, discretion, and safety — far removed from the atmosphere of a conventional hospital.

What is the first step for patients who are considering treatment at your clinic?

Patients can contact us at any time via our website or by phone. This is followed promptly by a comprehensive medical consultation with our team of physicians. In most cases, treatment can begin immediately thereafter — because in oncology, time is a decisive factor.