UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI

Dr. Coffey and Dr. Green found that GSI therapy significantly alters gene expression in 20 bone marrow cell types, potentially beyond tumor killing. GSIs increase BCMA on cell surfaces, enhancing CAR T-cell efficacy but also signaling genes downstream of BCMA, possibly promoting cell survival and proliferation. GSIs also reduced non-classical monocyte numbers and their tumor-supporting cytokine production. Including patients previously treated with anti-BCMA therapies, they discovered BCMA gene deletions in some, highlighting the need for genetic screening. The study underscores the need for caution due to off-target effects and plans further molecular analysis of GSI's impact on myeloma cells.

The AACR Integrative Molecular Epidemiology Workshop, held July 20-25, 2025 in Philadelphia, is a week-long program aimed at early-career researchers in molecular cancer epidemiology. It bridges genetics, molecular markers, exposures, and advanced methods, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Participants gain hands-on experience in study design, omics integration, and epidemiological methods, focusing on reproducibility and health equity. The workshop, directed by Peter Kraft, Elizabeth A. Platz, Sophia H. L. George, and Shelley S. Tworoger, has trained over 400 researchers and receives positive feedback for its collaborative atmosphere and practical learning.

Cindy M. Pabon, MD, discusses updated efficacy and safety findings from 3 trials in gastric and gastroesophageal cancer: TOPGEAR (preoperative radiotherapy), KEYNOTE-811 (pembrolizumab plus trastuzumab and chemotherapy), and DESTINY-Gastric03 (fam-trastuzumab deruxtecan-nxki). These studies highlight the shift towards targeted and systemic treatments, balancing efficacy with toxicity, and the importance of long-term survival outcomes over pathologic complete response rates.

The latest edition of University of Miami Medicine magazine highlights cross-disciplinary research teams tackling medical challenges, explores how living environments impact health, profiles doctors-turned-authors, and celebrates early alumni pioneers.

The FDA's approval of zolbetuximab-clzb in combination with chemotherapy for HER2-negative, CLDN 18.2-positive gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma marks a significant shift towards precision medicine in treating this cancer. The approval, supported by the SPOTLIGHT and GLOW trials, highlights the potential of targeting CLDN 18.2 to improve patient outcomes, encouraging further research and timely biomarker testing.

Ambassador Mariangela Zappia highlighted Italy's biotechnology strategy at the Milken Institute's Future of Health Summit, emphasizing the strategic U.S. relationship and a $21 million commitment to CARB-X. The summit, attended by health experts, discussed global health challenges.

Research from Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Miller School of Medicine at the University of Miami will be presented at the 66th Annual Meeting & Exposition of the American Society of Hematology in San Diego, Dec. 7-10, 2024.

Italian Ambassador to the US, Mariangela Zappia, highlighted Italy's biotechnology strategy and its strategic relationship with the US during the Milken Institute's 'Future of Health Summit' at Villa Firenze. Italy announced $21 million for Car-X to combat antibiotic resistance. The summit, organized by the Milken Institute, gathered experts to discuss global health issues.

Dr. Alan Wein, a 60-year veteran in urology, reflects on his career, including coining the term 'overactive bladder' and creating a classification system for urinary disorders. He discusses the evolution of the field and his current role at the Desai Sethi Urology Institute, offering advice to aspiring urologists.