Stephanie Kauffman’s Post

We're thrilled to announce our latest commitment to funding melanoma research, totaling $12.6 million! This investment will support over 30 brilliant scientists across leading academic and medical institutions in the US and globally. Today also marks the start of Melanoma Awareness Month. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, continues to pose a significant public health threat. With over 100,000 new cases of invasive melanoma estimated to be diagnosed in the US this year, our mission to advance research and treatments is more critical than ever. At MRA, we've been at the forefront of groundbreaking advancements in melanoma research since our inception in 2007. Today, individuals with advanced melanoma have access to 17 FDA-approved treatments, a testament to the impact of our collective efforts. But our work is far from over. Nearly 50% of patients with advanced melanoma still do not respond to current treatments. That's why our dedicated investigators are tirelessly exploring new frontiers in melanoma research. From advancing immunotherapy options, to unraveling the complexities of rare melanomas, and tackling brain metastases, we're committed to driving progress and transforming outcomes for patients worldwide. Our initiatives extend beyond conventional approaches, embracing innovative solutions like harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Through our Precision Detection and Diagnosis Initiative, we're revolutionizing early detection methods, ensuring timely interventions and optimal care for every patient. Additionally, our investment in microbiome research is shedding light on the crucial role of nutrition and lifestyle factors in improving treatment responses. By understanding the intricate interplay between the microbiome, immune system, and patient outcomes, we're paving the way for personalized interventions that can make a real difference. Together, we're forging a path towards a future where melanoma is not just treatable, but preventable. Join us in our mission to eradicate melanoma and transform the landscape of cancer care. Together, we can make a difference. Learn more about our 2024 research initiatives at https://lnkd.in/ggKjAidZ #MelanomaAwarenessMonth #MelanomaResearch #CancerAwareness #MedicalInnovation

MRA's Chief Executive Officer Dr. Marc Hurlbert is featured in The ASCO Post discussing the melanoma research landscape and how MRA's guiding mission to cure and prevent melanoma has contributed towards its progress. He overviews research advancements from the past 17 years, and highlights the need for more investments so that no patient is left behind. "Despite the remarkable, unparalleled progress in developing new treatments for advanced melanoma, our work shows us that fewer than half of patients respond to treatment in the first-line setting." He goes on to outline four high-priority research focus areas for MRA: rare melanomas; treatment-resistant melanomas; brain metastasis and leptomeningeal disease; and prevention and early intervention. In addition to investing in these four scientific priority areas, MRA will continue to support hypothesis-driven translational research through its annual Request for Proposals (RFP). "In the years ahead, we aim to actively engage numerous partners to help us rapidly advance research and quickly get more effective therapies into the hands of patients with late-stage melanomas, and other cancers, that are not benefiting from the myriad of treatment options developed over the past decade. There is no time to waste. These patients and their families are depending on us," Dr. Hurlbert writes. https://lnkd.in/gM3GVFMC

🌟 A Spark of Hope Against Melanoma: Unveiling a Bright Future! 🌟 🔬 Exciting news on the horizon! 🚀 Researchers have just achieved a remarkable breakthrough in our quest to conquer melanoma, a daunting adversary in the realm of cancer. The power of science never ceases to amaze, and this time, it's through the ingenious application of electrical stimulation to skin cells. 🔌 What if I told you that by simply harnessing electrical energy, scientists have unveiled a groundbreaking strategy to combat melanoma? 🤯 Recent studies have illuminated the potential of electrical stimulation as a catalyst for profound cellular responses. These responses, in turn, act as a formidable barrier against the relentless growth and dissemination of melanoma cells. 🧪 The implications are awe-inspiring: a pathway towards tailored therapies that could seamlessly complement our existing arsenal of treatments. Could this be the turning point we've been waiting for? 🤔 While cautiously optimistic, the study's findings hold the promise of not only augmenting the current treatments but potentially revolutionizing the landscape of melanoma treatment altogether. 🚪 Imagine a future where we wield a more comprehensive and potent strategy against this formidable disease. The door to such possibilities is now ajar, inviting us to explore the potential of electrical stimulation as a dynamic tool in the fight against melanoma. 💪 Together, we're on the cusp of a new era in medical advancement. Let's stay curious, keep nurturing innovation, and continue supporting the brilliant minds dedicated to reshaping the future of healthcare. 🌈 🌐 What are your thoughts on this electrifying breakthrough? Could electrical stimulation truly be the missing piece in the melanoma puzzle? 🧩 Let's engage in a vibrant discussion and envision the potential of this remarkable discovery! 💬👇 https://bit.ly/3ORgARk Ian Eliason Neal Mody

 We are incredibly proud to announce our first ever TEAM SCIENCE AWARD through the Melanoma Research Alliance. As many of you know, we have funded over $1.6 Million to MRA which has financed eight Young Investigators for three-year projects over the last 10 years.   One thing we love about MRA is their model of collaboration. A sister organization to Faster Cures, they truly believe in finding ways to “get there faster” and that is in large part by forcing and facilitating the most brilliant minds in the field to work together, share information, tissue samples and learnings so that we can expedite new treatments and research to the patients in the clinic.   This year, we partnered with MRA on creating a specific RFP that was included in their annual grant request process for the TARA MILLER MELANOMA FOUNDATION’s Team Science Award. A team science award fulfills one of MRA’s primary goals: to foster a collaborative research process. These awards promote transformational melanoma research advances with the potential for rapid clinical translation.   We were able to set the criteria to what we felt was important to accomplish and then scientists from all around the world applied for this specific Award from TMMF/MRA. Our criteria centered around finding studies that focused on late-stage patients with limited treatment options – with specific interest in brain metastasis. We had 12 teams submit proposals that were then scored by the MRA Grant Review Committee composed of the top researchers in the field. The top Melanoma scientists from around the world gather annually at the Scientific Retreat to score the proposals, an event we are honored to attend each year.   Of all the submissions the team scored, we selected the proposal lead by Dr. Benjamin Izar, MD, PhD, from Columbia University Irving Medical Center. The team also includes Dr. Sheri Holmen, PhD, (University of Utah), Dr. David Schoenfeld, MD, PhD, (Yale University) and team mentor Dr. Harriet Kluger, MD (Yale University). A short excerpt from the proposal of what they hope to accomplish is: “Together, this work will make major contributions in several ways: first, through the development of novel models to study brain metastasis more broadly; second, by dissecting a fundamental process of how cancer cells adopt to their target organ for metastatic spread; and third, propose a potentially useful therapeutic approach that may selectively prevent or treat existing melanoma brain metastasis.”   We are excited to share this with you all and say THANK YOU for making it possible for us to fund such impactful research with your support!! 

Interesting New Concept- treating the tumor microenvironments to increase cancer survival? A Spanish group (from Alacant/Alicante) : Arumi-Planas, M., Rodriguez-Baena, F.J., Cabello-Torres, F. et al. Microenvironmental Snail1-induced immunosuppression promotes melanoma growth. Oncogene 42, 2659–2672 (2023). https://lnkd.in/dmEs-8JG Snail1 is an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition transcription factor expressed during development and reactivated in pathological situations including fibrosis and cancer. Marta Arumi-Planas et al show that Snail1 is activated in the melanoma microenvironment, particularly in fibroblasts. Analysis of mouse models that allow stromal Snail1 depletion and therapeutic Snail1 blockade indicate that targeting Snail1 in the tumour microenvironment decreases melanoma growth and lung metastatic burden, extending mice survival. Transcriptomic analysis of melanoma-associated fibroblasts and analysis of the tumours indicate that stromal Snail1 induces melanoma growth by promoting an immunosuppressive microenvironment and a decrease in anti-tumour immunity. #microenvironment #cancer #melanoma #immunesuppression

The article follows the story of Australian skin cancer doctors, Richard Scolyer and Georgina Long, who faced a dire situation when Scolyer was diagnosed with an aggressive form of glioblastoma, a deadly brain tumor. Scolyer and Long, known for their groundbreaking work on melanoma, decided to apply their expertise to save Scolyer's life. Drawing from their success in melanoma treatment using immunotherapy, they developed a radical plan involving a combination of drugs administered before surgery. Despite skepticism and risks, including potential poisoning and instant death, Scolyer became the first brain cancer patient to undergo this treatment. Promising results have generated excitement, with hopes of extending Scolyer's life and potentially making a breakthrough for global brain cancer treatment. While some caution that it's too early to declare success, pharmaceutical companies and clinical trials are already showing interest in their work. Scolyer, reflecting on his journey, expresses a mix of fear and resilience, finding purpose in contributing meaningful data to change the field even if he does not survive. A great article to read.

Our new research blog article speaks on Melanoma & Skin Cancer Awareness Month: “Melanoma & Skin Cancer Awareness Month: Genomics for developing effective therapies” More interesting insights on our May Blog: https://lnkd.in/g-3gfajY If you have missed our earlier blogs click here to learn more: https://lnkd.in/dwazpNE8 #Skin cancer, #Basal cell carcinoma, #Squamous cell carcinoma, #Melanoma, #UV radiation, #Melanocytes, #Mutations, #Treatment resistance, #Immunotherapy, #Targeted therapy, #Cellular therapy, #Clinical trials, #Genomics, #Skin cancer treatment 

🚀 Advancing melanoma screening through personalised risk scores 🚀 Melanoma is a major public health challenge in Australia. It is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among young Australians. We are proud to support a groundbreaking project led by Dr. Aideen McInerney-Leo from the Dermatology Research Centre at the UQ Diamantina Institute, aimed at revolutionising melanoma screening. Bioplatforms Australia has provided a long-term support for this major public health challenge. Our past involvements enabled the generation of biomolecular datasets characterising melanoma tumours which aided in the determination of the ‘driver’ mutations behind this disease and underpinned the development of further therapeutics. The NHMRC grant will enable Dr Aideen McInerney-Leo and her team to develop personalised melanoma risk scores, enhancing early detection and improving patient outcomes. In collaboration with the QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Monash University, and The University of Sydney, this program leverages the Australian Cancer Research Foundation Flagship Centre program, involving 10,000 Australians in comprehensive genetic and UV damage assessments. The Australian Centre of Excellence in Melanoma Imaging & Diagnosis (ACEMID) is receiving cross-NCRIS collaborative support with our sister NCRIS capabilities NIF and ARDC joining us. Key highlights: ✅ 10,000 participants will undergo total body imaging and genomic sampling. ✅ Personalised risk scores will be returned to 4,000 individuals. ✅ Evaluation of psychological and behavioural impacts of these scores. ✅ Potential to transform melanoma screening and treatment in Australia. The 2022 Australian Skin and Skin Cancer Summit emphasised the importance of collaboration with industry partners and clinical laboratories for successful implementation. This research represents a significant stride towards personalised healthcare, crucial in the fight against melanoma, ensuring better health and longevity for all Australians. Together, let's pave the way for an effective melanoma screening program! 🌞🩺💡 #NCRISimpact Read more on our website: https://lnkd.in/ggfHMzvt

Scientists at the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have developed a new CAR T-cell-based immunotherapy to treat patients with rare and cutaneous melanoma subtypes, demonstrating its potential efficacy. ⬇️ ➡️ The new approach uses an engineered CAR T-cell designed to recognize and attack cells with high levels of TYRP1, a protein found on the surface of melanoma cells. The team found that these engineered CAR T-cells can effectively eliminate cancer cells in preclinical tests without causing severe side effects. 💡 Researchers identified TYRP1 as an antigen that can be targeted in melanoma cells using CAR T-cell immunotherapy, as it is more prominently expressed on the surface of melanoma cells than normal tissues. They found that approximately 30% of patients with cutaneous melanoma present high overexpression of TYRP1. Notably, the percentage of overexpression was even higher in patients with rare melanomas. The authors showed that 60% of patients with acral and mucosal melanoma and around 90% with uveal melanoma overexpress TYRP1. ✅ With this design, they found the CAR T-cells completely eradicated cancer cells in both cell lines and animal models, showcasing promising results without inducing toxicity or causing adverse effects related to the treatment. https://lnkd.in/e4S8NeZP #cancer #cancerresearch #immunotherapy #immunooncology #cartcelltherapy #melanoma #precisiononcology