FOX CHASE CANCER CENTER

Fox Chase Cancer Center hires Lorenzo Galluzzi, PhD, as Associate Professor with tenure in Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Research Program. Galluzzi previously focused on adaptive stress responses of cancer cells and immune responses at Weill Cornell Medical College. He holds adjunct positions at Yale and Italian universities, is Associate Director of the European Academy for Tumor Immunology, and has published over 500 scientific articles.

NCCN updated its Genetic/Familial High-Risk Assessment guidelines to include breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancers, reflecting the latest genetic research. The guidelines now cover testing for genes like BRCA1, BRCA2, CDH1, PALB2, PTEN, TP53, and HOXB13, with specific management strategies for P/LP variants, including screening, surveillance, and preventive surgeries. These updates aim to enhance shared decision-making, screening practices, and targeted treatment choices.

The 2024 NFCR Global Summit and Award Ceremonies for Cancer Research & Entrepreneurship, co-hosted with the AIM-HI Accelerator Fund, convened top experts across cancer research, biotech entrepreneurship, pharmaceuticals, investment, and patient advocacy at the National Press Club. The event highlighted cutting-edge cancer research advancements, early detection and intervention, AI in diagnostics and personalized treatment strategies, fostering innovative collaborations, and driving breakthrough solutions. Keynotes and panels discussed immunotherapies, biomarkers, personalized approaches, and AI-powered diagnostics. The summit also featured an Innovative Oncology Company Showcase and investor perspectives, culminating in awards and a panel on the future of cancer research.

Oryzon Genomics reports financial results for Q3 2024, highlights PORTICO Phase IIb trial data for vafidemstat in BPD, FDA approval for PORTICO-2 Phase III trial, strengthened IP position for vafidemstat, and first cohort dosed in Phase Ib study of iadademstat in first-line AML. R&D expenses reduced by $5.1M.

Nucleus RadioPharma announces new 53,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Mesa, AZ, set to open in mid-2026, addressing the shortage of high-quality development and manufacturing space for theranostic products. The facility will create 50 new skilled jobs and enhance patient access to life-saving treatments, expediting clinical trials by up to 30%.

Urine tests show promise in detecting various cancers, with ongoing research focusing on improving accuracy and expanding detection options, including for lung, ovarian, pancreatic, colorectal, prostate, bladder, and head and neck cancers.

A decade-long study finds that a combination of nivolumab and ipilimumab significantly extends survival for patients with advanced melanomas, with median survival now over six years. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, shows no increase in adverse effects over 10 years, suggesting these immunotherapy drugs can transform metastatic melanoma into a manageable, long-term condition.

A Drexel-led study, part of the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center Research Consortium, showed significant improvements in participants' food choices after engaging with a coach. The study highlights the importance of behavioral science in helping adults make healthy choices, underscoring the need for interdisciplinary collaboration in cancer research and prevention. The consortium, recently awarded comprehensive status by the National Cancer Institute, leverages the expertise of multiple Drexel colleges and Thomas Jefferson University to develop transformative approaches in cancer prevention and treatment.