Through Research, Wilmot's Mature Breast Cancer Development Program Vindicates Its Existence
At Wilmot Cancer Institute, a leading facility in New York, groundbreaking research and innovative treatments are transforming the landscape of breast cancer care.
Jennifer Harvey, M.D., an international expert in breast density, is working tirelessly to identify those most at risk of developing a lump between mammograms or of having a tumor hidden in dense breast tissue. Her work is instrumental in ensuring early detection and effective treatment.
Paula Vertino, Ph.D., the Wilmot Distinguished Professor in Cancer Genomics, is delving into the study of breast cells with invasive potential and the underlying signals during the earliest steps in their migration towards metastasis. Her research could pave the way for more targeted treatments.
In the realm of treatment, the "less-is-more" trend has proven beneficial, preventing thousands of patients from having to undergo chemotherapy. This approach has been made possible by advancements in understanding the disease and the development of more targeted therapies.
The ultrasound device co-invented by Neb Duric, Ph.D., professor and vice chair of research for Imaging Sciences, has boosted tumor detection by 20 percent in nationwide clinical trials. Wilmot Cancer Institute is one of the first locations in the United States, and the first in New York, to offer this advanced ultrasound device, designed to improve tumor detection in dense breasts.
Isaac Harris, Ph.D., assistant professor of Biomedical Genetics, is investigating how breast cancer cells make their own antioxidants and use them to survive. His research could lead to the development of new treatment strategies.
Anna Weiss, M.D., the newly recruited director of Wilmot's breast cancer service line, is working on enhancing connections between clinicians and lab scientists working on breast cancer across the Medical Center. This collaboration aims to build larger, cross-institutional research projects.
Wilmot is part of a larger national network of clinical trials evaluating the effectiveness of the newest drugs for triple negative breast cancer. This collaboration ensures that patients have access to the latest and most promising treatments.
Geriatric oncologist Allison Magnuson, D.O., has initiated a novel project for older patients with pre-existing dementia, funded by a $2.5 million National Institute on Aging grant. This project aims to improve the quality of life and treatment outcomes for these patients.
Avice O'Connell, M.D., the director of women's imaging at UR Medicine, is working with Duric to further develop the SoftVue system. This collaboration will further enhance the institute's ability to detect breast cancer early and accurately.
Kim Gergelis, M.D., joined Wilmot Cancer Institute from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. She is working on a method to use military-based breath hold techniques for breast cancer patients undergoing radiation at Wilmot. However, specific details about this research are not yet publicly available.
The evolution of radiation therapy is often based on tumor type, age, lifestyle, and treatment goals. Wilmot has new clinical studies in this area, including the exploration of condensed radiation therapy.
Research at Wilmot is focusing on immune therapies, targeted drugs like PARP inhibitors, and studies to discover if some patients with the HER2 gene signature can use less-toxic precision drugs. These advancements promise a future of more personalised and effective treatments.
The institute's Comprehensive Breast Care program is expanding, with new initiatives such as groundbreaking clinical trials, advanced technology for breast cancer diagnosis, a risk-reduction clinic, a retooled survivorship program, new directions in laboratory research, and a mobile mammography unit launching later this year. These developments underscore Wilmot's commitment to providing the best possible care for breast cancer patients.
- Dr. Jennifer Harvey's clinical study on breast density is crucial for early detection and effective treatment of breast cancer, transforming patient care at facilities like Wilmot Cancer Institute.
- Dr. Paula Vertino's research into the early stages of breast cell migration could significantly impact the development of targeted treatments for breast cancer.
- The advanced ultrasound device co-invented by Neb Duric has shown a 20 percent increase in tumor detection in clinical trials, enhancing health-and-wellness for patients with dense breasts.
- Wilmot Cancer Institute's expansion includes groundbreaking clinical trials for women's health, particularly focusing on breast cancer, aiming to provide personalized and more effective treatments.
