The SU2C Multiple Myeloma Dream Team is focusing on precursor myeloma conditions in patients at a high risk for the disease. Greater knowledge of these conditions, combined with a better understanding of the molecular and immune factors that lead to disease progression, may yield effective strategies that intercept cancer progression and improve survival.
This project involves what is believed to be the first large-scale population survey in the United States for precursor conditions of multiple myeloma―specifically, conditions called monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM).
Blood samples from approximately 50,000 people, recruited largely through social media, are being analyzed to identify those who have the precursor conditions, which cause no symptoms and are usually detected only when a physician orders a blood test for another reason.
Because it is unclear how to tell whether someone with MGUS or SMM will progress to full-blown multiple myeloma, the SU2C Multiple Myeloma Dream Team is following those with the precursor conditions and using the samples to discover biomarkers that will help predict those with a high risk of progressing. The team is also working to develop treatments for high-risk SMM and multiple myeloma.
This Dream Team is part of the SU2C Cancer Interception initiative, an approach that studies how to actively intervene in the formation of cancers rather than treating them only after they are fully developed.
The top scientists and researchers on the SU2C Multiple Myeloma Dream Team come from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines, which leads them to great insights upon collaboration. Learn more about the SU2C Multiple Myeloma Dream Team.
Dream Team Members
“We tell people with precursor conditions that we will ‘watch and wait’ until it turns into multiple myeloma, with multiple tumors that can potentially cause organ damage. That’s like telling people with breast cancer or colon cancer that we are not going to do anything until the cancer metastasizes throughout the body. We want to change that.”
Stand Up To Cancer’s research projects are designed to foster collaborative, swift translational research. The hallmarks of these efforts include rigorous application and selection procedures, sufficient funding to allow scientists to focus on the objectives of the grant, and reviews by senior scientists every six months. These reviews help the investigators capitalize on the latest findings, address potential roadblocks, and collaboratively evolve as the science requires. Please click on the link to see summaries of research results so far for the SU2C Multiple Myeloma Dream Team.
Cancer clinical trials allow researchers to study innovative and potentially life-saving new treatments. The goal is to find treatments that are better than what’s currently available; in fact, the therapies offered to today’s cancer patients were almost all studied and made possible by people participating in clinical trials. But many cancer clinical trials aren’t completed because not enough people take part.
At StandUpToCancer.org/ClinicalTrials, you’ll find information and answers to common questions about clinical trials. Learn more and talk to your doctor to see if a clinical trial may be the best choice for you.
You can also connect with EmergingMed, a free and confidential clinical trial matching service that provides access to a vast database to help you identify the clinical trials that might be right for you or your loved one.
