Conferences

Melanoma is a malignant tumour resulting from the transformation of melanocytes, the cells in the skin that undertake to synthesise melanin, a complex polymer which protects us from the negative effects of solar radiation.

Animal and human studies by scientists at Rockefeller University have for the first time generated data to suggest that an individual’s pre-existing genetic make-up may impact the likelihood of cancer progressing and metastasizing.

For most people who die of cancer, the spread of the initial tumor is to blame. “Metastasis is what kills most cancer patients," says Serge Fuchs, a professor in Penn’s School of Veterinary Medicine.

Adjuvant dabrafenib and trametinib provided long-term benefit for patients with resected stage III BRAF V600-mutant melanoma, according to an analysis of the COMBI-AD trial presented during the ASCO20 Virtual Scientific Program.