Dr. Dwight Owen Honored with Award for Immunotherapy Research

Innovative Research Award Highlights New Approaches in Cancer Treatment

This award lays the foundation for future breakthroughs in immunotherapy

LUNGevity Foundation, a leading nonprofit organization focused on lung cancer, has announced the recipient of the prestigious Brown/LUNGevity Award to Understand Mechanisms of Resistance to Immunotherapy. This recognition is a significant milestone aimed at confronting the challenges posed by treatment-resistant lung cancer.

Over the last decade, therapies targeting the PD-(L)1 and CTLA-4 pathways have revolutionized the treatment landscape for lung cancer. However, increasing evidence shows that tumors often develop resistance to these immunotherapies, causing them to restart growth. Researchers and clinicians alike are actively seeking solutions to address this critical issue.

The award, generously sponsored by the Brown Family, focuses on extensive research into the factors contributing to non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) resistance to immunotherapy. The ambitious goal of this initiative is to develop effective strategies to combat drug resistance and enhance the longevity of immunotherapy treatments.

“Our family's experience with immunotherapy highlighted both its power and the unfortunate reality of acquired resistance,” shared Mike Brown. “With this research award, we aim to bolster efforts that may help other patients facing similar challenges.”

A key highlight of this award is the recognition of Dr. Dwight Owen, MD, from Ohio State University, whose project focuses on “Targeting Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Immunotherapy-Resistant NSCLC.” His innovative research aims to harness the body's immune mechanisms more effectively to overcome resistance seen in numerous lung cancer cases.

Dr. Owen's research group will investigate the role of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in cancer resilience. TAMs are immune cells that may inadvertently aid tumor growth and metastatic spread. Specifically, they will examine the hedgehog signaling pathway, which plays a significant role in communication between TAMs and NSCLC cells. By interrupting this signaling, the team aims to create a less conducive environment for cancer cell survival, enabling the immune system to regain control and better combat the disease.

Upal Basu Roy, PhD, MPH, executive director of LUNGevity Research, noted, “With immune checkpoint inhibitors now available, the cancer community recognizes the importance of facilitating the body’s natural immune responses. Designers of these therapies face the challenge of acquired resistance in a substantial proportion of lung cancer patients. Hence, our partnership with the Brown Family is vital in uncovering ways to extend the benefits of immunotherapy treatments.”

About LUNGevity Foundation

As the premier organization dedicated to lung cancer advocacy, LUNGevity is transforming the narratives surrounding lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. The foundation focuses on immediate improvements in quality of life and works tirelessly to ensure health equity across all demographics affected by the disease.

With a robust strategy encompassing:

• Research: LUNGevity pursues innovative methods to facilitate early lung cancer detection and advances new treatments, ensuring a steady stream of diverse, qualified researchers for future advancements in the field.
• Advocacy: The organization fosters essential partnerships to guarantee equitable access to screenings, biomarker tests, and treatment advancements.
• Community: By empowering individuals affected by lung cancer through education, support, and connection, LUNGevity aims to enhance healthcare access and improve overall survival rates.

LUNGevity supports patients through various comprehensive resources, including a user-friendly website, dedicated patient gateways, a HELPLine for personalized assistance, international survivor conferences, and comprehensive lists of clinical trials. These initiatives are designed to fulfill LUNGevity's vision—a society where lung cancer is no longer a fatal diagnosis. The organization is proud to hold a four-star rating from Charity Navigator.

Understanding Lung Cancer in the US

• Approximately 1 in 18 Americans will face a lung cancer diagnosis during their lifetime.
• This year, more than 234,000 people in the US are expected to be diagnosed with lung cancer, translating to a new diagnosis roughly every 2.2 minutes.
• Notably, around 65% of new lung cancer cases arise among individuals with either no tobacco exposure or only past tobacco usage.
• Lung cancer claims more lives annually than colorectal and pancreatic cancers combined.
• Only 27% of individuals diagnosed with lung cancer will survive for five years or longer; however, early detection significantly improves the five-year survival rate to 64%.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Brown/LUNGevity Award?

The award aims to support groundbreaking research focused on understanding the mechanisms underlying resistance to immunotherapy in lung cancer treatments.

Who is Dr. Dwight Owen?

Dr. Dwight Owen is a researcher at Ohio State University who has been recognized for his innovative work in lung cancer immunotherapy.

How does targeting tumor-associated macrophages help?

By targeting these immune cells, researchers aim to diminish their support for tumor growth, enhancing the efficacy of treatments against non-small cell lung cancer.

What is LUNGevity's mission?

LUNGevity's mission focuses on improving survivorship and quality of life for lung cancer patients while promoting health equity.

Why is it important to address immunotherapy resistance?

Addressing resistance issues is crucial because it can significantly improve treatment outcomes and longevity for patients suffering from lung cancer.

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