Melanoma, one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer, often metastasizes to bones, causing severe bone loss, an increased risk of fractures, and significant pain. Bone metastasis is associated with poor survival rates and a markedly reduced quality of life.
2025
Immunotherapy that combines hormone and topical treatment offers new hope for melanoma and breast cancer
A research team at the Medical University of Vienna led by Maria Sibilia has investigated a new combination therapy against cancer. This therapy employs systemic administration of the tissue hormone interferon-I combined with local application of Imiquimod. This combination showed promising results in topically accessible tumors like melanoma and breast cancer models.
New combination immunotherapy for melanoma and breast cancer
(Vienna, 23 January 2025) A research team at the Medical University of Vienna led by Maria Sibilia has investigated a new combination therapy against cancer. This therapy employs systemic administration of the tissue hormone interferon-I combined with local application of Imiquimod. This combination showed promising results in topically accessible tumors like melanoma and breast cancer models: The therapy led to the death of tumor cells at the treated sites and simultaneously activated the adaptive immune system to fight even distant metastases. The results published in the top journal Nature Cancer could improve the treatment of superficial tumors such as melanoma and breast cancer.
Tumor Biology Dissertation Presents New Way of Tracking Melanoma Progression
An M.D.-Ph.D. candidate in Georgetown University’s tumor biology program defended his dissertation, titled “Molecular Signatures of Treatment Responses in Tumors and Serial Liquid Biopsies in Patients with Metastatic Melanoma,” Jan. 16.