Researchers from Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center will present an impressive array of cutting-edge cancer research at the upcoming American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting 2025, scheduled for May 30-June 3 in Chicago. The institution will showcase 9 oral presentations, 4 rapid oral presentations, 51 poster presentations, and 31 publication-only abstracts, highlighting significant advances across multiple cancer types.
Breakthrough Multiple Myeloma Research Takes Center Stage
Among the most anticipated presentations is the ADVANCE clinical trial led by Dr. C. Ola Landgren, examining the efficacy of carfilzomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (KRd) with or without daratumumab in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients. This randomized, multi-center study represents a potential paradigm shift in first-line treatment approaches for this challenging hematologic malignancy.
"The ADVANCE trial explores whether adding daratumumab to an already potent three-drug regimen can further improve outcomes for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients," said Dr. Landgren. "These findings could significantly impact how we approach initial therapy for this disease."
Innovative Supportive Care Interventions
Sylvester researchers are also pioneering novel approaches to supportive care, with two notable studies focusing on patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). A pilot randomized clinical trial led by Dr. Lara Traeger evaluates a virtual reality supportive care intervention (BMT-VR) for HSCT patients, while another study examines a psychosocial digital application for caregivers of HSCT patients.
"Stem cell transplantation is an intensive procedure that takes a significant toll on both patients and caregivers," explained Dr. Traeger. "Our research aims to develop innovative digital solutions that can provide psychological support throughout this challenging process."
Addressing Chemotherapy-Induced Thrombocytopenia
Dr. Gerald Soff will present findings from a global phase 3 randomized, placebo-controlled trial investigating romiplostim for chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia in colorectal, gastroesophageal, and pancreatic cancers. This research addresses a critical unmet need in supportive cancer care, as thrombocytopenia often leads to chemotherapy dose reductions or delays that can compromise treatment efficacy.
Advances in Renal Cell Carcinoma Treatment
Dr. Jaime Merchan will share results from a phase 1 study examining the combination of casdatifan plus cabozantinib in previously treated patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma. This novel combination represents a potential new option for patients who have progressed on standard therapies.
Tackling Rare and Challenging Cancers
Several presentations focus on rare and difficult-to-treat malignancies:
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Dr. Gina D'Amato is contributing to a randomized phase 2/3 study of olaparib plus temozolomide versus investigator's choice for advanced uterine leiomyosarcoma after progression on prior chemotherapy.
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Dr. Jose Lutzky is co-authoring a phase II randomized study of neoadjuvant pembrolizumab alone or in combination with vidutolimod in high-risk resectable melanoma.
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Dr. Jonathan Trent is involved in a randomized phase III trial of catequentinib hydrochloride versus placebo in subjects with metastatic or advanced leiomyosarcoma.
Groundbreaking Research on Alcohol-Related Cancer Mortality
In a rapid oral presentation, Dr. Chinmay Jani and senior author Dr. Gilberto Lopes will present alarming findings on the escalating impact of alcohol-related cancer mortality in the United States. Their research highlights the urgent need for public health interventions to address this preventable risk factor.
"Our data reveals concerning trends in alcohol-related cancer deaths across the country," said Dr. Jani. "This research underscores the importance of increased awareness, screening, and prevention strategies targeting alcohol consumption as a modifiable cancer risk factor."
Addressing Cancer Disparities
Several studies from Sylvester researchers focus on identifying and addressing disparities in cancer care:
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Dr. Frank Penedo will present findings on ethnic disparities in unmet supportive care needs and outcomes among older ambulatory cancer patients.
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Dr. Ming Sheng Lee's research examines environmental PFAS exposure as an understudied social determinant of health for endometrial cancer disparities in Florida.
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Dr. Brandon Mahal is investigating disparities in receipt of palliative treatments among disaggregated Hispanic populations with breast, lung, and prostate cancer in the United States.
Novel Therapeutic Approaches
The institution's research portfolio also includes numerous studies evaluating innovative treatment approaches:
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Dr. Justin M. Watts is leading research on olutasidenib in relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia with IDH1 mutations.
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Dr. Elizabeth Franzmann is senior author on a phase IIA trial of neoadjuvant APG-157 monotherapy in patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
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Dr. Leonel Hernandez-Aya is contributing to research on IMA203, an engineered T-cell receptor expressing T cell therapy for previously treated advanced cutaneous melanoma.
Advancing Precision Medicine
Several presentations highlight Sylvester's commitment to precision medicine approaches:
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Dr. Amrit Paudel is investigating the role of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) testing in early detection and monitoring of soft tissue sarcomas.
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Dr. J. William Harbour is validating a 16-protein test to assess malignant potential of small uveal melanocytic tumors.
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Dr. Gilberto Lopes is involved in multiple studies evaluating targeted therapies for specific genetic alterations, including BRAF mutations, RET fusions, and EGFR mutations.
"The breadth and depth of research being presented by our investigators at ASCO 2025 demonstrates Sylvester's commitment to advancing cancer care through innovative clinical trials and translational research," said Stephen D. Nimer, MD, director of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. "Our work spans the full spectrum from basic science to clinical applications, with a particular focus on addressing the needs of our diverse South Florida community."
The ASCO Annual Meeting represents the world's largest gathering of oncology professionals, providing a platform for sharing groundbreaking research that shapes the future of cancer care. Sylvester's strong presence at this prestigious conference underscores its position as a leading cancer research institution committed to developing more effective treatments and improving outcomes for cancer patients worldwide.
