Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah has joined the myeloMATCH program, a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-sponsored initiative designed to match patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) to clinical trials based on the unique genetic signatures of their diseases. This collaboration aims to advance precision medicine in treating these aggressive blood cancers.
Precision Medicine Approach
The myeloMATCH program represents a significant step towards personalized cancer care. By analyzing the genetic makeup of each patient's cancer, researchers can assign them to specific clinical trials tailored to their disease type. This approach contrasts with the traditional “one size fits all” chemotherapy regimens that have historically been the standard of care for AML.
According to Paul Shami, MD, investigator at Huntsman Cancer Institute and professor of medicine, "For a long time, we had just one aggressive chemotherapy treatment program for AML. In the past few years, we have evolved from the one size fits all model to where we have many treatment options. To be able to put those options within a rational, scientifically designed clinical trials program is exciting and will hopefully move the field forward."
Detecting Measurable Residual Disease
A key aspect of myeloMATCH is the use of advanced technology to detect measurable residual disease (MRD). This allows clinicians to identify even very low levels of cancer cells that may remain after initial treatment. "Not too long ago, a patient would be in remission, and a bone marrow biopsy would look clear under the microscope. But if we use these very sensitive tools to look for very, very low levels of disease, results can be different. Even that low level of residual disease has a negative prognostic impact," Shami explained. The myeloMATCH program provides a systematic strategy to use MRD for treatment assignment, which is not universally available.
Impact on Patient Care
AML is a rare and aggressive blood cancer, affecting approximately 20,000 patients annually in the U.S. The five-year survival rate for adults with AML is only 31%, underscoring the urgent need for more effective treatments. MDS, a condition that can progress to AML, further complicates the treatment landscape.
The myeloMATCH program offers hope for improved outcomes, particularly for patients who may not be suitable candidates for intensive chemotherapy or bone marrow transplantation. "The myeloMATCH program gives us more treatment options to offer patients, including older or frail patients who would not be good candidates for aggressive chemotherapy, let alone a bone marrow transplant," Shami noted.
Collaborative Network
The myeloMATCH program leverages the resources of the NCI’s National Clinical Trials Network, which supports clinical trials at over 2,000 sites nationwide. It combines the expertise of the Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology, ECOG-ACRIN, SWOG, and the Canadian Cancer Trials Group. This collaborative effort aims to accelerate the development and implementation of precision medicine strategies for blood cancers. The program is funded by the NCI and supported by the National Institutes of Health and the Huntsman Cancer Foundation.
