Cancer Center Stories

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Cancer Discoveries

The latest cancer discoveries and innovations coming out of cancer research labs at the Medical College of Wisconsin.

DNA Sample

Researchers Use Genetic Testing to Identify More Effective Treatments for Advanced Prostate Cancer

Scientists found that platinum-based chemotherapy may help men with advanced prostate cancer who no longer respond to PARP inhibitors, especially those with BRCA2 mutations.

Clinician with Patients

MCW Co-Designed Trial Offers Safer Treatment to Vulnerable Patients with Head and Neck Cancer

Results of the NRG-HN004 study help to establish a new standard of care while addressing a critical gap in cancer treatment.

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MCW Cancer Investigators Play Key Role in FDA Approval of First T-Cell Therapy for Solid Tumors

Approved for adults with aggressive synovial sarcoma, afami-cel provides a novel treatment approach for this challenging cancer. The Center plans to be the first in Wisconsin to offer it to patients.

Doctor and Patient

MCW Scientists Make a Breakthrough in Overcoming Chemotherapy Resistance in Ovarian Cancer

Findings of a new study show that targeting the Oncostatin M Receptor, a protein highly expressed in some aggressive ovarian cancers, may help overcome chemotherapy resistance in the disease.

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A Catalyst for Discovery: MCW’s World-Class Brain Bank Drives Groundbreaking Neuro-Oncology Research

The Brain Bank is rapidly evolving into a hub for neuro-oncology-focused research that equips MCW scientists with unique equipment and an expansive database to accelerate breakthroughs and bring hope to patients with brain cancer.

NCUR Group Photo

MCW Cancer Center Trainees Present Research Findings to a National Audience

Five trainees in the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Fellowship Program showcased their research at the prestigious National Conference on Undergraduate Research.

Physician Checking Thyroid of Patient

MCW Scientists Unveil a New More Tolerable Treatment Option for Patients with Thyroid Cancer

Investigators discovered a novel combination of two drugs was powerful in killing thyroid cancer cells with RET mutations and resulted in fewer adverse effects than existing treatments.

Woman touching neck

MCW Researchers Use Cutting-Edge Technology to Enhance Immunotherapy in Head and Neck Cancers

A groundbreaking study showed that special T cells capable of recognizing and killing cancer cells could be taken out of patients’ tumors and made stronger to fight their disease.

Pancreatic Cancer Cells

MCW Scientists Identify Patients with Pancreatic Cancer Who May Respond to Immunotherapy

A new study has identified four distinct subtypes of pancreatic cancer, revealing that some types have a better outlook and the potential to respond better to immunotherapy.

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Mito-ATO Makes Immunotherapy More Potent Against Tumors, 'Shows Great Clinical Potential'

Collaborative research shows the MCW-created drug, Mito-ATO, may play a crucial role in improving cancer treatment by altering and reprogramming immune cells.

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MCW Cancer Scientists Make a Breakthrough in Treating Aggressive Uterine Cancer

A new study is the first ever to show the anti-cancer therapeutic potential of using drugs selinexor and eribulin in uterine leiomyosarcoma.

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MR Tumor Regression Grade Can Help Oncologists Guide Treatment for Patients with Rectal Cancer

A new study is showing that when used alone, magnetic resonance (MR)-based imaging for grading tumors in patients with rectal adenocarcinoma is an insufficient tool for measuring pathologic complete response (pCR).

Researcher in lab

Scientists Identify FOXM1 Protein as a Key Driver of Myeloma Metabolism

In a recent study, investigators take a closer look at the metabolic role of genes to determine the genetic and biological pathways associated with high-risk myeloma and relapsed/refractory myeloma. The research opens the door to new therapies and prevention.

microorganisms

Scientists Design Integrin Inhibitor Principle to Aid the Development of Drugs Targeting Cancer

Integrins are molecules that play an important role in cancer cell migration and survival. In a recent study, investigators developed a new design for improving the safety and efficacy of cancer treatments as well as treatments for autoimmune disease and thrombosis.

Clinical Trials

Featured studies paving the way for new treatments and lifestyle interventions for patients with cancer.

Doctor Consulting with Man

MCW Cancer Investigators Evaluate New Targeted Therapy for Advanced Leiomyosarcoma

The global trial aims to determine if this novel approach helps control tumors longer than standard treatment alone.

Patient getting blood transfusion

MCW-led Trial Tests Novel Combination Treatment for Myelodysplastic Syndrome

The phase 1 trial tests the safety and best dose of iadademstat with azacytidine, aiming to improve treatment response and slow disease progression.

Father and Daughter with Doctor

New Children's Wisconsin Trial Tests Immunotherapy with Chemotherapy in High-Risk Neuroblastoma

This novel approach may target cancer cells more effectively, potentially reducing relapse and improving survival for patients experiencing one of the most aggressive pediatric cancers.

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MCW Cancer Center Launches MyeloMATCH to Advance Precision Medicine for Myeloid Cancers

The phase 2 study identifies genetic mutations driving aggressive myeloid cancers, enabling doctors to provide more precise and effective therapies tailored to each patient.

Callisia Clarke MD

MCW Cancer Center Welcomes New Leadership to Improve Access to Cutting-edge Clinical Trials

Building on its commitment to improve health for all, the Center has appointed Dr. Callisia Clarke as Co-Associate Director of Clinical Research with a focus on clinical trial equity.

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Trailblazers in Innovation: MCW Researchers Harness the Power of AI to Improve Clinical Trial Matching

A new pilot study conducted by researchers at the MCW Cancer Center and CTSI automates patient-trial matching by using a large language model (LLM), a Triomics platform called OncoLLM, to analyze vast amounts of data in a fraction of the time it would take a human, and with greater precision.

Patient getting blood transfusion

MCW's CAR T-Cell Lab Helps Scientists Bring Lifesaving Therapies to Patients with Blood Cancers

Cancer investigators recently treated the 100th patient in an ongoing clinical trial that uses an in-house manufactured, dual-targeted CAR-T therapy for patients with B-cell malignancies.

Medicare Enrollment Form

Center Leads Groundbreaking Change in Medicare Policy for MDS Patients in Need of Transplants

Decades-long research from MCW Cancer Center investigators has led to a Medicare policy change that expands coverage for certain stem cell transplants for patients with myelodysplastic syndromes.

Woman with caregiver

Patient Navigation Program Improves Access to Life-Saving Clinical Trials

In a significant stride towards inclusivity in cancer care, the MCW Cancer Center has launched a new program to improve clinical trial access in underserved communities.

Precision Medicine in Pancreatic Cancer

PROTECT-PANC Trial Evaluates Precision Medicine Strategies in Patients with Pancreatic Cancer

The fast-track trial bolsters MCW’s dedication to advancing precision medicine strategies across a wide spectrum of cancer types.

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JANUS Trial Improves on Past Treatment Strategies for Advanced Stage Rectal Cancer

Investigators say the phase 2 study is “transformative” because it allows patients to be managed with a watch and wait approach.

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Translational Research Unit Celebrates 10 Years of Accelerating Novel Cancer Therapies

The state-of-the-art clinical and research facility has been instrumental in advancing innovative ideas and launching practice-changing cancer clinical trials.

Hodgkin lymphoma

Novel Treatment Strategy Offers New Hope for Young Patients with Classic Hodgkin Lymphoma

In a recent trial, MCW investigators tested a new salvage therapy approach that incorporated targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy that may be safer and more effective than the standard of care for treating pediatric patients with relapsed cHL.

Blood Cancer

Combination of Chemotherapy and CAR-T Therapy Helps Leukemia Patients Achieve Remission

MCW Cancer Center investigators discovered that chemotherapy coupled with CAR-T infusion helped patients with acute lymphocytic leukemia achieve another remission, opening the door to promising new therapies.

woman looking at iPad

CAR-T Therapy Slows Multiple Myeloma in Patients Who Have Stopped Responding to Other Treatments

MCW’s Binod Dhakal, MD, presented the first results from the Phase 3 CARTITUDE-4 trial, which showed that cilta-cel reduced the risk of MM progression or death by approximately 74%.

man and woman researchers in laboratory

Patients Receive "Rockstar" Treatment for Chronic Graft-Versus-Host Disease

MCW Cancer Center scientists conducted a pivotal trial leading to the expedited approval of REZUROCK, a ground-breaking new therapy available to adult and pediatric patients that works by rebalancing a patient’s immune system.

Cancer in Our Community

Research insights and policies aimed at improving the life and well-being of people across Wisconsin and beyond.

Doctor Examining Mammogram

Lubna Chaudhary Awarded Pilot Funding to Unlock the Secrets of Endocrine Resistance in Breast Cancer

The Our Patient Project study lays the foundation for more personalized treatment strategies, ensuring patients can receive therapies suited to their cancer’s unique biology.

Rock Climbing Event

Cancer Prevention Starts With Grassroots Efforts Led by the Community Outreach and Engagement Team

The small but mighty team delivers a wide range of services—from health education to screenings to patient navigation—directly into the community, especially in underserved neighborhoods.

Bike Riders

MCW Cancer Center Hosting Inaugural Audaxity Bike Ride This Summer at American Family Field

The countdown to the Audaxity ride is officially underway, and the excitement is building. Participants of all ages and abilities are invited to join the community-driven movement to end cancer.

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Wisconsin's First Compact Proton Therapy System: Froedtert & MCW Forging a New Path in Cancer Care

In summer 2025, the Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin health network will begin offering a game-changing form of radiotherapy for patients in our community and across the state.

Nurse Taking Patients Blood Pressure

MCW Blood Cancer Researchers Lead Efforts to Reduce Disparities in Access to Lifesaving Treatment

A new study reveals barriers underserved patients face in accessing stem cell transplants, laying a foundation for developing targeted programs that advance health equity.

Health Griots Participants

Health Griots Program Empowers Prostate Cancer Survivors to Lead the Charge in Eliminating Disparities

By educating on cancer prevention, early detection, and access to care, the Health Griots are working to close gaps in support and connect underserved patients with the care they need to live long, healthy lives.

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United Against Cancer MCW Researchers Join Forces with the Community to Eliminate Disparities

The Research & Community Scholars Program creates a space for fair and trusting relationships to develop between MCW and the community, helping to ensure that MCW Cancer Center research is both effective and equitable.

Cancer Research Building Beam Signing

March Milestones are Just the Beginning of the Center's Plan to Transform Cancer Research and Care

The MCW Cancer Center celebrates a construction milestone for the Cancer Research Building; the launch of a new bike fundraiser; and its community impact during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

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Dr. Elizabeth Hopp Awarded Pilot Funding to Improve Outcomes for Patients with Rare Ovarian Cancer

The MCW Cancer Center has awarded Dr. Elizabeth Hopp an Our Patient Project pilot grant for her innovative research that may drive discovery of more effective treatments for ovarian cancer.

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MCW’s Commitment to Advancing Precision Medicine ‘Levels the Playing Field’ for Patients with Cancer

A panel of MCW Cancer Center leaders share how the institution is harnessing cutting-edge precision medicine techniques at the 11th annual ACS CAN Cancer Research & Innovation Forum.

Cancer Disparities

Featured studies on how cancer is impacting a diversity of populations.

African American contemplating

MCW Scientists Discover Chemokine Levels May Contribute to Prostate Cancer Disparities

A new study reveals that biological factors may explain racial disparities in prostate cancer lethality; the findings could help guide therapeutic approaches to improve outcomes in African American men.

Doctor with xray

Transgender and Nonbinary People, and Providers, Benefit from Better Awareness of Screening Guidelines

Screenings help catch cancer early, resulting in more promising health outcomes. While the transgender and nonbinary population is growing, the majority are unsure of when and whether to be screened. A new study points to the need for greater cancer education and care.

People and Progress

Recent leadership announcements, program updates, and Cancer Center milestones.

Marilyn Larson Biking

Marilyn Larson, MBA: Shaping the Future of Cancer Care

A Wisconsin native, Marilyn joined MCW in 2014, driven by a mission to further establish the Cancer Center as a leader in accessible, innovative cancer research and care.

Mary Horowitz Portrait

Mary Horowitz, MD, MS: An Unexpected Path that Changed Cancer Care

Dr. Horowitz is a world-renowned leader in blood and marrow transplantation research that has helped improve survival rates and made transplants safer and more widely accessible.

Razelle Kurzrock with Husband

Razelle Kurzrock, MD, FACP: Redefining What’s Possible

Dr. Kurzrock is helping to transform the landscape of cancer research and care to achieve more precise diagnoses, personalized and targeted therapies, and improved patient outcomes.

Fumou Sun

Faculty Feature: Fumou Sun, PhD

Dr. Sun is dedicated to translating CAR-T cell therapies into clinical trials, bridging the gap between innovative laboratory research and transformative patient care.

Lauren "LB" Bennett, Audaxity's inaugural Managing Director, with her bike

Audaxity Bike Fundraiser Welcomes New Leadership to Advance Goals, Raise Millions for Cancer Research

Lauren “LB” Bennett’s arrival marks an exciting new chapter for Audaxity as she pioneers the development of the inaugural ride, and brings together a community boldly united to go after the Center’s vision of eradicating cancer.

Trainee Symposium

2nd Annual Trainee Symposium Celebrates Learners Pushing Past Barriers to Unlock Cancer Discoveries

More than 170 attendees gathered at the Milwaukee County Zoo’s Zoofari Conference Center to recognize and learn from next-generation cancer scientists.

Cancer Research Forum

Cancer Research Forum Celebrates Its First Year of Driving Scientific Collaboration and Innovation

The collaborative meeting and social event creates a space for Cancer Center members to share unpublished research and gather quality feedback from peers.

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Faculty Feature: Angela Steineck, MD

Dr. Steineck’s research focuses on novel therapies and interventions to improve clinical care, quality of life, and survivorship in children with cancer.

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Faculty Feature: Todd Miller, PhD

Dr. Miller’s lab aims to understand the causes of drug resistance in breast cancer, and to develop improved treatment strategies to prevent and overcome it.

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Faculty Feature: Francesca Marassi, PhD

In her new role as associate director of shared resources, Dr. Marassi will partner in the leadership and development of each of the center’s six shared resource cores.

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Faculty Feature: Staci Young, PhD

In her new role as associate director of community outreach and engagement, Dr. Staci Young will lead the team responsible for advancing clinical, research, and policy initiatives that extend the center’s reach with under-resourced groups, and improve access to cancer prevention, life-saving clinical trials, and survivor support groups.

Lisa Sanchez-Johnsen, PhD, MS

Faculty Feature: Lisa Sanchez-Johnsen, PhD, MS

As the inaugural Associate Director of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging (EDIB), Dr. Sanchez-Johnsen is focused on ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion are an integral part of the Cancer Center’s culture and celebrated through its people, processes, research, and strategic investments.

woman writing on whiteboard

Partnership with UW-Milwaukee Aims to Foster a Lifetime Commitment to Science

The MCW Cancer Center recently awarded 10 Wisconsin students $100,000 in scholarships to pursue cancer research careers. The educational program provides an immersive experience that enables students to work alongside nationally-recognized scientists.