The University of Michigan's Rogel Cancer Center is set to significantly advance its pancreatic cancer research efforts, thanks to a generous $50 million gift from Richard and Susan Rogel. This funding will establish the Rogel and Blondy Center for Pancreatic Cancer, aiming to accelerate translational research, expand clinical trial access, and improve patient outcomes.
Collaborative Ecosystem
The Rogel Cancer Center distinguishes itself through a highly collaborative environment. "Many of us have labs next to each other... It allows for an exchange of ideas, joint mentoring of trainees and a lot of collaboration," explains Marina Pasca di Magliano, Ph.D., co-director of the new center. This close proximity, combined with weekly joint lab meetings involving over 10 laboratories, fosters a dynamic exchange of ideas and data, enabling larger, high-impact projects.
Personalized Oncology Approach
Research at the center is increasingly focused on personalized oncology. "The research is moving toward a more personalized oncology approach, really understanding how each tumor is different and how their tumors change during treatment," Pasca di Magliano notes. This involves longitudinally sampling tumors and analyzing blood samples to monitor individual patient responses to treatment and identify resistance mechanisms as they emerge.
Metabolism and Immunity
Another key area of focus is the interplay between metabolism and immunity in pancreatic cancer, particularly concerning mutant K-Ras, a key oncogene. The ultimate goal is to stimulate an effective immune response against the tumor. "I strongly believe that’s the only way we will get long term control over the disease," Pasca di Magliano asserts, highlighting the importance of understanding how to optimize the body's natural defenses to combat cancer.
Center of Excellence
The Rogel and Blondy Center aims to be a destination for patients seeking top-notch clinical care and comprehensive treatment options. A vital component is the lab-to-clinic pipeline, where patient samples are used in lab research, and the resulting knowledge is then translated back to oncologists for improved patient care. The center is also part of the Precision Promise initiative, facilitating patient-specific clinical trials.
Training and Diversity
The center places a strong emphasis on training the next generation of researchers and fostering diversity within its labs. With a commitment to career development, the center aims to cultivate a diverse group of scientists who will drive future advances in pancreatic cancer research.
