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The latest cancer discoveries and innovations coming out of cancer research labs at the Medical College of Wisconsin.
Molecular Hide-and-Seek: Lan Zhu Lab Exposes Cancer's Hidden Drug Targets
In the Lan Zhu Lab, scientists are working to visualize cancer’s hidden molecular machinery, uncovering drug targets that could reshape how the disease is treated.
When Blocking Inflammation Backfires: Drobyski Lab Discovers a Key Driver of GVHD After Transplantation
Scientists at the Drobyski Lab discovered that blocking a key inflammatory regulator can unexpectedly worsen graft-versus-host disease after transplant—reshaping how GVHD may be treated.
The Ojesina Lab Targets Cervical Cancers Prevention Can't Catch
By studying how genetic changes interact with viruses and bacteria inside tumors, researchers are working to uncover what sets these cancers apart and how that knowledge could lead to better care.
From Molecules to Medicine: How Data Powers Precision Oncology
A connected cycle of discovery, validation, prediction, and personalization is transforming molecular insights into more precise and effective cancer therapies.
MCW Takes Cancer Care by Storm: Theranostics and the 'Next Wave' of Precision Oncology
By using specialized imaging to reveal where cancer is active, doctors can target therapy directly to tumors in the same step, transforming the way cancer is detected, tracked, and treated.
Global Study Tests Next-Generation HER2 Therapy for Metastatic Breast Cancer
A promising phase 3 trial is testing a next-generation therapy designed to help patients whose cancer has stopped responding to standard treatments, with the goal of offering better control of the disease and improving quality of life.
A ‘Personalized Pharmacy’: Cell Therapy Shared Resource Engineers Lifesaving Treatments for Cancer and Beyond
Researchers at MCW are pushing cell therapy into new frontiers, exploring its potential in neurological disorders, genetic diseases, and other serious conditions.
Drugging the Undruggable: McFall Lab Unlocks New Treatments for KRAS-Driven Cancers
By challenging long-held assumptions about how certain KRAS mutations function, the McFall Lab is uncovering new ways to treat some of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat cancers.
MCW Cancer Center Trial Tests Cutting-Edge Radioimmunotherapy to Improve AML Outcomes
Researchers at MCW are testing a more precise treatment approach that delivers radiation directly to cancer cells while leaving healthy tissue unharmed.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
Treating Myeloma FASTER: Can Immunotherapy Replace Stem Cell Transplantation?
The FASTER trial is testing whether personalized immunotherapy can replace or delay stem cell transplants in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma, aiming for deeper remissions with fewer side effects.
Decoding the Heart's Hidden Risks During Cancer Treatment
The DECODE Heartland study looks at how cancer treatments affect the heart and blood vessels. It tracks early changes in the cardiovascular system and tests strategies—such as home-based exercise—to help patients stay heart-healthy during treatment.
Cilta-Talq Fusion Study Examines a New Bridging Approach to CAR T-Cell Therapy in Multiple Myeloma
Dr. Othman Akhtar uses targeted immunotherapy to stabilize patients while their personalized CAR T-cell therapy is manufactured, supporting safer and more effective treatment.
Early-Phase Trial Explores a New Immunotherapy Approach for Hard-to-Treat Solid Tumors
A first-in-human study is testing a targeted IL-2-based therapy designed to boost the body’s own cancer-fighting cells.
MCW Cancer Center Expands Access to Precision Oncology and Rare Cancer Care
Under the leadership of Dr. Razelle Kurzrock, more patients than ever will benefit from personalized, next-generation cancer treatments.
ROUTE 90 Trial Brings Cutting-Edge Radiation Therapy to Patients with Liver Cancer
A multi-center trial is testing a next-generation therapy that delivers targeted radiation directly to tumors with greater precision and visibility than ever before.
New Study Examines Long-Term Impact of Next-Generation BTK Inhibitor in Blood Cancers
MCW Cancer Center clinical research teams activated a phase 4 study to explore the long-term use of pirtobrutinib, a therapy for chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
Beyond the Beam How MCW Innovators Are Transforming Radiation Therapy With Sonoptima
The first-of-its-kind wearable device uses AI and ultrasound to monitor bladder fullness in real time, helping patients with pelvic cancers know exactly when to start radiation treatment.
The Science of Survivorship Every Day Counts Study Improves Life for Women with Metastatic Breast Cancer
The 16-week lifestyle intervention aims to understand what happens when women with breast cancer make small, manageable changes to how they eat, move, and manage their health.
MASTER-2 Trial Advances Personalized Treatment Approach for Multiple Myeloma
Findings from the study could guide care decisions and reduce unnecessary treatment for patients who are already doing well.
Turning Science into Survivorship: Children’s Wisconsin Researchers Drive Breakthroughs in Pediatric Cancer Care
The MACC Fund has turned community generosity into life-changing childhood cancer research at MCW and Children’s Wisconsin.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Learn how we’re setting new standards for clinical trial equity
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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%.
Cancer in Our Community
Research insights and policies aimed at improving the life and well-being of people across Wisconsin and beyond.
The Other “C” Word: Dr. Anita D'Souza Shapes What Comes After Survival in Multiple Myeloma
Immunotherapy is helping patients with multiple myeloma live longer and better, shifting the conversation around survivorship. Researchers like Dr. D’Souza are combining treatments with lifestyle studies to support both longevity and quality of life.
Personalized Physical Activity Support Meets Cancer Survivors Where They Are
For cancer survivors, movement doesn’t mean intense workouts. Whitney Morelli, PhD, is advancing survivorship care through personalized, practical physical activity that fits into daily life—helping reduce pain and fatigue while restoring a sense of control.
The Health Griots Program Has Turned Prostate Cancer Awareness into Action
What started as a small group of prostate cancer survivors sharing their stories has grown into a brotherhood, and a movement, that is changing how Black men across Milwaukee talk about prostate cancer.
Immersive Cancer Center-UWM Training Program Gives Future Scientists a Head Start in Discovery
Through the UW-Milwaukee Undergraduate Research Experience Program, what begins as curiosity becomes confidence as students step into MCW Cancer Center labs, where mentors and hands-on research experiences open doors and set them on a path toward impactful careers in cancer science.
Translating Hope: New Mural Connects Science and Community at the Center for Cancer Discovery
Artist Mauricio Ramirez’s mural transforms the building’s main conference space into a vibrant symbol of unity, depicting how science and community come together in the fight against cancer.
Cancer from Every Angle: GEO Shared Resource Helps Researchers Turn Data into Action
The Geospatial, Epidemiology, and Outcomes Shared Resource helps researchers identify community patterns with patient-level insights to advance cancer research and care.
The Breakthrough Ride: More Than 1,000 Participants Join Inaugural Audaxity Event to Fuel Cancer Discoveries
With the support of founding sponsor Associated Bank, 100 percent of the funds raised through Audaxity will fuel new cancer discoveries.
Support That Changes the Story: How Patient Navigation Expands Access to Lifesaving Clinical Trials
Here, patients facing the uncertainty of a cancer diagnosis don’t have to navigate the journey alone. Patient navigation helps people across our communities gain access to clinical trials that could improve their outcomes.
Audaxity Bike Giveaway Helps More Riders Join the Movement to End Cancer
Wisconsin cancer survivors and caregivers were gifted 25 new bicycles from Associated Bank in advance of the inaugural Audaxity Bike Ride.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
See how we bring the right treatments to the right patient at the right time
People and Progress
Recent leadership announcements, program updates, and Cancer Center milestones.
The Making of a Physician-Scientist: Memon Named First American Cancer Society Medical Student Fellow
Through a yearlong American Cancer Society fellowship, MCW medical student Abdullah Memon is gaining immersive research experience as he begins building a career in cancer science.
Built by Bikes: How Audaxity Turned a Ride Into a Research Training Program
Thanks to the Audaxity community, the MCW Cancer Center has launched a new Clinical Research Fellowship Program that prepares the next generation of physician-scientists to lead the future of cancer discovery and care.
Precision Under Pressure: Dr. David Seo Helps Guide Urgent Treatment Decisions in Pancreatic Cancer
For patients with pancreatic cancer, timing is everything. Dr. David Seo harnesses precision medicine to match therapies to each tumor, faster and smarter.
Breakthroughs Beyond the Bench: Miller Lab Turns Breast Cancer Discoveries into Better Care
Todd Miller, PhD, Wisconsin Breast Cancer Showhouse Endowed Professor of Breast Cancer Research, is dedicated to unraveling one of cancer’s most complex puzzles: why breast cancer adapts, resists treatment, and returns long after therapy ends.
From the Gut to the Genome: Kudek Lab Engineers Better Treatments for Children with Cancer
Guided by science and collaboration, Dr. Matthew Kudek is driven to transform complex immune responses into solutions that protect children long after cancer is gone.
Cancer Ends Here: MCW Celebrates the Grand Opening of the Center for Cancer Discovery
The new cancer research facility will stand as a hub where bold ideas, collaborative partnerships, and community voices unite to transform cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship for generations to come.
Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin Supports Cancer Research and Improves the Health of Our Community
AHW-supported research plays a vital role in solving the most pressing public health challenges and shaping a healthier future for families across the state.
A New Era: MCW Center for Cancer Discovery
From breaking ground to breaking through, the MCW Center for Cancer Discovery stands as a beacon to scientific discovery.
Faculty Feature: Vanessa Leone, PhD
Leveraging computational approaches such as artificial intelligence, Dr. Leone’s research aims to uncover new and innovative cancer treatments.
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.
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.
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 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.