Tackling the Evolving Challenge of Blood Cancer

Blood cancers are relentless adversaries, constantly evolving and developing mutations that resist existing treatments. At the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center's Leukemia and Drug Development Lab (LDDL), researchers are on a mission to identify these mutations and bring innovative treatments to patients.

A Battle for Survival

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) poses a significant challenge, with a five-year survival rate stuck at a mere 30%. This stagnation contrasts sharply with breast cancer, which has seen its survival rate nearly triple in the past 60 years due to increased research funding and advancements in precision medicine.

The 'Sprinkles' of Blood Cancer

Megan Johnstone, Ph.D., emphasizes the complexity of blood cancers, likening them to a container of colorful sprinkles. Initially, a patient may have a uniform cancer type, but as the disease progresses, it mutates into various resistant forms. "You can think of celebrating your AML with 10 different colors, each representing a unique mutation and a challenge for treatment," she noted.

The Need for New Treatment Options

Typically, blood cancers begin with a standard first-line treatment, which may lead to remission for some. However, others face resistance or a recurrence, highlighting the urgent need for new therapies. Johnstone states, "If resistance develops, we must pivot to explore alternative treatment options."

From Cure to Manageability

Researcher Erin Hertlein, Ph.D., points out that while the ultimate goal is a cure, the reality is that cancer often adapts faster than treatments can evolve. "By understanding how cancer changes, we can better anticipate resistance and develop more effective therapies," she explained.

Innovative Research Strategies

The LDDL employs a groundbreaking 'bench-to-bedside' and 'bedside-to-bench' approach, learning from patient experiences to refine treatments swiftly. They aim for patients to live long, fulfilling lives while managing their cancer. For some leukemia patients, treatment could potentially allow for a normal lifespan.

A New Weapon Against Resistance

Recently, the LDDL has zeroed in on the FLT-3 mutation, prevalent in about 30% of AML patients. Although the FDA-approved drug gilteritinib was effective, some patients developed resistance. In an unprecedented collaboration with Eilean Therapeutics, researchers have identified a promising new drug called lomonitinib after testing over 60 compounds.

Harnessing Patient Samples for Breakthroughs

Utilizing blood samples from consenting patients is a cornerstone of the LDDL's research. These samples fuel ongoing investigations, allowing the team to test different compounds against patient-derived cancer cells efficiently. Johnstone stated, "We utilize every component of the samples, creating valuable data points that drive our research forward."

Greater Collaboration for Accelerated Discoveries

The newly established Blood Cancer Healing Center promises to enhance collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and patients, streamlining the research process. With everyone in close proximity, rapid decision-making is facilitated, allowing researchers to pivot quickly based on real-time discussions.

The Path Ahead

With ongoing support from various funding sources, the LDDL is committed to identifying effective therapies for blood cancer patients. The team's dedication to not wasting time or resources on less promising avenues enables them to focus on innovations that can genuinely impact lives.