Multimodal Precision Liquid Biopsy to Predict Risk of Melanoma Recurrence
Abstract
This program of research combines academic, clinical, and industry expertise to develop and implement accurate predictive liquid biopsy signatures for risk of melanoma recurrence in stage II melanoma. The central goal of this research is to prevent melanoma recurrence in patients with early-stage melanoma. We will deliver a minimally invasive monitoring tool that will be used to tailor the clinical management of patients. It will identify the patients who do not require treatment after surgery and the patients who require further treatment. This program of research addresses the Fiscal Year 2021 Melanoma Research Program Focus Area: Develop prediction and surveillance tools for distinguishing patients at risk for recurrence and/or metastasis. Stage II melanoma accounts for 15% of all melanoma cases diagnosed and these patients have a substantial risk of recurrence. Approximately 28% and 45% of stage IIB and IIC melanoma, respectively, will recur within 5 years. Treatment of stage II melanoma typically involves the surgical excision of the cancer and although patients need to be monitored for many years, there are no standard guidelines for routine surveillance of stage II melanoma. Most patients will undergo regular physical examinations and some may also undergo routine imaging to look for melanoma recurrence. New, effective therapies are also being considered for these patients. These therapies have improved the survival of patients with advanced melanoma – but they also cause serious, long-term side effects in many patients. The issue of therapy toxicity and patient care becomes increasingly important as we consider treating patients who may be cured by surgery alone (greater than 50% of stage II melanoma patients have durable survival). We need better approaches that can accurately select the patients who are at high risk of recurrence and will require treatment after surgery. The aim of this research proposal is to develop liquid biopsy-based signatures that predict the risk of relapse in stage IIB/IIC melanoma. Liquid biopsies allow for the analysis of markers that are circulating in fluids, such as the blood, and they provide an exciting opportunity to truly deliver personalized cancer care. Liquid biopsies begin with a simple blood test, they can be repeated at each clinic visit and they can provide a rapid and accurate monitoring tool to support patient care in real-time. This 3-year proposal will deliver a validated monitoring tool, and our partnerships with clinical centers and implementation scientists will see clinical application in the 3-5 year period after the successful completion of this project. The liquid biopsy signature we develop will identify the patients who are at high risk of recurrence and who will benefit from further treatment. Patients will have better outcomes with reduced long-term emotional and physical effects.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Dec 28, 2022
- Source ID
- W81XWH2210731
Entities
People
- Helen Rizos
Organizations
- Macquarie University
- United States Army