In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Ashley Sumrall, a neuro-oncologist and Section Chief at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute, shares groundbreaking insights into the treatment of diffuse midline gliomas with the H3K27M mutation. Dr. Sumrall presents data from pediatric and adult studies using Dordaviprone (ONC201), highlighting its promising response rates and tolerability. She also discusses the evolving role of AI in neuro-oncology, the value of multidisciplinary care, and the need for advocacy in biomarker access and healthcare policy.

Episode Highlights:

Advancements in Treating Rare Brain Tumors

Dr. Sumrall introduces updated clinical findings on Dordaviprone for diffuse midline gliomas, a rare and aggressive brain tumor affecting children and young adults. The combined adult and pediatric studies showed a 20% overall response rate and minimal serious side effects, offering a new sense of hope in an area with limited treatment options.

Pediatric-Adult Trial Integration

She explains the rationale for combining data from adult and pediatric studies due to the rarity of the disease and evolving definitions of pediatric age groups. This integrated approach offers valuable insights into treatment effectiveness across the age spectrum.

Promise of AI in Neuro-Oncology

Dr. Sumrall emphasizes how machine learning and AI tools like OpenEvidence and ChatGPT can streamline imaging analysis, assist in clinical trial design, and improve diagnostic efficiency. She foresees AI as a co-pilot in tumor boards and day-to-day clinical decisions.

Well-Tolerated Therapy and Quality of Life

Unlike many cancer treatments, ONC201 demonstrates a low side effect profile, with zero serious adverse events reported. This is especially significant for brain tumor patients who often face limited options beyond surgery and radiation.

Biomarkers and Access Challenges

She highlights the importance of biomarker testing in classifying tumors and guiding therapy. However, she warns of ongoing disparities in access due to high costs and limited insurance coverage, particularly in community care settings.

Advocacy for Research Funding and Access

Dr. Sumrall underscores the role of physician and patient advocacy in preserving NIH and NCI funding, expanding access to biomarker profiling, and supporting legislation to streamline patient care.

Collaborative Oncology Models

She describes her work in multidisciplinary tumor boards and genetic predisposition clinics, where oncologists, geneticists, and endocrinologists jointly tailor proactive care plans—an approach she believes should be the gold standard in oncology.

Key Takeaway:

Dr. Sumrall reinforces that innovation in rare brain tumor treatment must be matched by advocacy, access to biomarker testing, and the adoption of AI-powered tools. The progress with ONC201 offers hope not just in extending life but also in improving the quality of life for patients once left without options.

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Connect with Dr. Ashley Sumrall: Here

In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Karine Tawagi, a genitourinary medical oncologist at the University of Illinois in Chicago, shares cutting-edge updates from ASCO 2024 related to bladder, prostate, and kidney cancers. Dr. Tawagi explores the clinical implications of circulating tumor DNA (CT DNA), discusses evolving bladder preservation strategies, and addresses the expanding role of PARP inhibitors in prostate cancer. She also emphasizes the importance of equitable access to new therapies and multidisciplinary collaboration in cancer care.

Episode Highlights:

Advances in Bladder Cancer Management

Dr. Tawagi reviews the Niagara study, which integrates dervalumab immunotherapy with standard cisplatin-based chemotherapy. This new regimen has become a standard of care for cisplatin-eligible patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer. She also discusses ongoing trials and the promise of bladder preservation, especially for patients concerned about quality of life post-cystectomy.

The Power of CT DNA in Personalizing Treatment

CT DNA is emerging as a powerful prognostic tool in bladder cancer, with potential use in escalating or de-escalating treatments based on molecular response. Dr. Tawagi discusses its role in both neoadjuvant and metastatic settings, including trials like the MODERN study.

PARP Inhibitors in Prostate Cancer

For prostate cancer patients with homologous recombination repair mutations—especially BRCA1/2—Dr. Tawagi highlights the role of PARP inhibitors such as niraparib and the Amplitude trial's results in the castration-sensitive setting. She discusses the ongoing debate around sequencing, survival outcomes, and access.

Kidney Cancer and Immunotherapy

An update from the Keynote 564 trial shows continued benefit of adjuvant pembrolizumab for high-risk localized kidney cancer. Dr. Tawagi underscores the importance of patient counseling using risk calculators and timely referral to oncology after nephrectomy.

The Importance of Multidisciplinary Care

Dr. Tawagi emphasizes collaboration among urologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and other specialties to deliver optimal, patient-centered care. She calls for increased awareness of trial updates and improved access to novel therapies across diverse populations.

Key Takeaway:

Dr. Tawagi emphasizes that the future of genitourinary oncology lies in individualized treatment informed by biomarkers like CT DNA, equitable access to novel therapies, and strong multidisciplinary collaboration to enhance outcomes and preserve quality of life.

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Connect with Dr. Karine Tawagi: Here

In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Elias Jabbour, Professor of Medicine at MD Anderson Cancer Center, shares groundbreaking insights into the evolving treatment landscape of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). He discusses the transformative role of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), strategies to achieve treatment-free remission, and how genetic testing, CAR-T therapy, and monoclonal antibodies are reshaping frontline and relapsed leukemia management.

Episode Highlights:

The TKI Revolution in CML

Dr. Jabbour recounts how TKIs have shifted CML from a fatal disease to one with normal life expectancy, even allowing for treatment discontinuation in select patients after prolonged deep molecular remission. He explains how monitoring and response milestones guide therapy and when mutation testing is necessary.

Understanding Resistance and Personalized Care

Resistance to TKIs is rare when patients are compliant. Dr. Jabbour outlines how NGS is used to detect kinase domain mutations and guide next-line therapy, particularly in BCR-ABL-independent resistance. He also shares why genomic profiling isn't yet used for frontline CML treatment but may become more relevant in advanced disease.

Integrating Immunotherapy in ALL

In adult ALL, Dr. Jabbour explains how immunotherapy and TKIs are reducing the need for chemotherapy and transplantation, improving both survival and quality of life. He discusses how CAR-T therapy may move to the frontline setting to shorten treatment duration and potentially eliminate the need for allogeneic transplant.

AML: Moving Toward Targeted Frontline Therapy

Dr. Jabbour outlines how FLT3, IDH, and menin inhibitors are improving outcomes in AML, especially when combined with hypomethylating agents and venetoclax. He stresses the importance of minimal residual disease (MRD) monitoring to tailor therapy and reduce overtreatment.

Overcoming Barriers and Promoting Access

He reflects on challenges like drug cost, limited access to specialized care, and clinical trial barriers such as travel and housing. Dr. Jabbour calls for simplified regimens that can be delivered anywhere, so that all patients—not just those at top centers—can benefit from the latest innovations.

Key Takeaway:

With the right combinations of targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and patient-specific monitoring, many leukemias—especially CML and ALL—are becoming manageable or even curable. But equitable access, affordability, and ongoing collaboration are essential to truly transform care worldwide.

Resources:

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Connect with Dr. Elias Jabbour: MD Anderson Profile

In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Diego Marzese, a breast cancer researcher specializing in epigenetics, explores how gene expression changes impact tumor behavior, treatment response, and disease progression. He discusses groundbreaking findings on how tumors activate or deactivate genetic alterations at different stages, the role of ethnicity in epigenetic variations, and how AI and machine learning are accelerating cancer research. Dr. Marzese also highlights the shift toward population-based health recommendations and the future of truly personalized cancer treatment.

Episode Highlights:

The Role of Epigenetics in Breast Cancer

Epigenetics refers to how environmental and lifestyle factors influence gene expression without altering DNA sequences. Dr. Marzese's research focuses on how tumors evolve over time, particularly in triple-negative breast cancer and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). By identifying key epigenetic markers, researchers can predict which pre-cancerous conditions may progress to invasive cancer, enabling earlier and more precise treatment strategies.

Ethnicity and Tumor Behavior

Dr. Marzese's recent study found significant epigenetic differences across ethnic groups, particularly in young African American women with breast cancer. These patients exhibited unique hormone-related and muscle development pathway alterations, which may explain their poorer treatment response and higher disease aggressiveness. These findings emphasize the need for ethnicity-specific health recommendations and a more tailored approach to cancer prevention and treatment.

AI and the Future of Personalized Medicine

With the rise of AI and big data analysis, oncology research is progressing faster than ever. Scientists can now rapidly analyze entire genomes, identifying patient-specific treatment strategies that were once impossible. Dr. Marzese envisions a future where cancer treatment is no longer based on broad subtypes but tailored to each patient's unique genetic and epigenetic profile. However, he stresses that education for healthcare providers is crucial to integrating these advances into clinical practice.

Key Takeaway:

Epigenetics is reshaping breast cancer treatment by revealing how tumors evolve and respond to therapy. AI and personalized medicine are paving the way for patient-specific, ethnicity-informed treatment strategies.

Resources & Links:

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In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Ashley Sumrall, a physician specializing in neuro-oncology, explores the challenges and innovations in the field of brain tumor research and treatment. She discusses disparities in care, the role of tumor profiling in personalized medicine, and the impact of AI on imaging and diagnostics. Dr. Sumrall also highlights the devastating effects of drug shortages, the importance of advocacy in cancer treatment access, and how environmental factors may influence rising cancer rates.

Episode Highlights:

Understanding Brain Tumors and Personalized Medicine

Despite decades of research, survival rates for certain brain tumors, including glioblastoma, remain unchanged. However, recent advances in tumor profiling have revealed that not all brain tumors behave the same way, allowing for more targeted treatment approaches. Dr. Sumrall emphasizes the need to expand tumor sequencing efforts to uncover mutations, fusions, and alterations that could impact treatment decisions.

The Role of AI and Technology in Neuro-Oncology

Artificial intelligence is already transforming neuro-radiology, improving MRI scan efficiency by 40% and enhancing blood flow imaging in the brain. AI also holds promise in predicting patient outcomes and treatment responses, but more research is needed to fully integrate these tools into clinical practice.

Drug Shortages and the Fight for Better Access

Drug shortages, particularly of low-cost but essential chemotherapy drugs, have become a major crisis in oncology. While expensive treatments remain widely available, lifesaving medications for children and adults with curable cancers are in short supply. Advocacy efforts at the federal and grassroots levels are crucial in pushing for policy changes that incentivize domestic drug production and improve distribution networks.

Environmental Factors and Rising Cancer Trends

Dr. Sumrall also touches on the emerging research into environmental contributors to cancer, including microplastics, pollution, and potential carcinogens. She highlights a growing trend of increasing colorectal and gastrointestinal cancers in young adults, which remains poorly understood and demands further investigation.

Key Takeaway:

Advances in tumor profiling and AI are transforming neuro-oncology, enabling more personalized treatment approaches. Drug shortages remain a critical issue, limiting access to essential cancer therapies. Increased advocacy and research funding are vital to improving patient outcomes and closing gaps in brain cancer care.

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Connect with Dr. Ashley Sumrall: Atrium Health ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology)

In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Oluwakemi Onajin, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist at the University of Chicago, discusses hidradenitis suppurativa (HS)—a chronic, inflammatory skin disease that is often misdiagnosed and takes years for patients to receive proper treatment. She explains the underlying causes of HS, the impact of genetics, hormones, and environmental factors, and how the disease progresses over time. Dr. Onajin also highlights the latest treatment options, including biologic therapies, surgical interventions, and laser treatments, as well as the psychosocial challenges that HS patients face.

Episode Highlights:

Delayed Diagnosis and Challenges in HS Care

HS is frequently misdiagnosed as abscesses or cysts, leading many patients to seek care in emergency rooms and urgent care centers for painful, recurring lesions. On average, it takes 7 to 10 years for an HS diagnosis, despite clear diagnostic criteria that clinicians can use to identify the disease earlier. Dr. Onajin emphasizes the need for better awareness among primary care providers and dermatologists to improve early diagnosis and prevent long-term complications.

Understanding HS Severity and Treatment Strategies

HS severity is classified into three stages using the Hurley system, with mild, moderate, and severe disease requiring different treatment approaches. For mild cases, topical antibiotics and short-term systemic antibiotics are often used. Moderate to severe cases require biologic immunomodulators, surgical interventions like deroofing and excision, and in some cases, laser hair removal to reduce follicular occlusion. Dr. Onajin also stresses the importance of pain management strategies, which can vary based on inflammation levels and nerve involvement.

The Future of HS Research and Patient-Centered Care

Despite advances in treatment, there are still gaps in clinical trials and research, particularly for underrepresented populations. Dr. Onajin advocates for more diverse clinical trial participation and multidisciplinary care approaches to address comorbidities such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and inflammatory arthritis. She also highlights the psychosocial impact of HS, including its effects on mental health, employment, and relationships, and the need for greater patient support and education.

Key Takeaway:

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that is often misdiagnosed, delaying treatment for many patients. Early diagnosis and a personalized approach, including biologics, surgery, and laser therapy, can significantly improve outcomes. Managing comorbidities like diabetes and cardiovascular disease is crucial for overall health. Increased awareness, research, and multidisciplinary care are essential to advancing HS treatment and patient support.

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Connect with Dr. Oluwakemi Onajin: University of Chicago Dermatology

In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Simone Nardin, a medical oncology fellow at the University of Genoa, discusses his research on ovarian suppression in premenopausal women undergoing endocrine therapy for luminal early breast cancer. His award-winning study explores the challenges of suboptimal ovarian suppression, its impact on treatment outcomes, and the need for longer follow-up and more frequent hormonal assessments. Dr. Nardin also highlights recent advancements in de-escalation strategies, emphasizing the importance of personalized treatment approaches to balance effectiveness and quality of life for breast cancer patients.

Episode Highlights:

Ovarian Suppression and Endocrine Therapy Challenges

Dr. Nardin's research focuses on premenopausal women receiving GnRH analogs plus tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors. His study found that suboptimal ovarian suppression is more common than previously thought, with 20% of patients experiencing inadequate suppression after five years of treatment. This could potentially impact long-term outcomes, though longer follow-up is needed. His findings suggest that hormonal levels should be monitored annually, rather than just in the first few months of treatment, to ensure effective suppression and improved patient outcomes.

De-escalation Strategies in Breast Cancer Treatment

A growing area of focus in breast cancer care is de-escalation of treatment to improve patient quality of life while maintaining treatment efficacy. Dr. Nardin discusses recent clinical trials that explore reducing endocrine therapy for elderly patients and omitting axillary lymph node dissection in certain cases to minimize long-term side effects. These studies suggest that some patients may benefit from less aggressive treatment without compromising survival rates, marking a shift in the standard approach to breast cancer management.

The Future of Breast Cancer Treatment

Looking ahead, Dr. Nardin envisions a more personalized approach to breast cancer care, where genetic signatures and biomarkers help tailor treatments to individual patient needs. Ongoing trials are evaluating chemotherapy-free regimens, alternative endocrine therapy strategies, and ways to avoid overtreatment, especially for patients who may not require intensive therapy. These advancements could lead to better long-term outcomes with fewer side effects, ensuring that patients receive the best treatment for their specific cancer type and risk level.

Key Takeaway:

Suboptimal ovarian suppression affects up to 20% of premenopausal breast cancer patients on endocrine therapy, highlighting the need for annual hormone level monitoring. De-escalation strategies in breast cancer treatment can improve quality of life without compromising outcomes for select patients. The future of breast cancer care lies in personalized treatments, ensuring each patient receives the most effective and least toxic therapy for their specific condition.

Resources & Links:

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Connect with Dr. Simone Nardin:LinkedIn

In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Frank Weinberg, a thoracic oncologist at the University of Illinois Cancer Center, explores the latest advancements in lung cancer research. He shares insights on the role of biomarkers in early detection and treatment, the impact of COVID-19 on cancer immunology, and how machine learning is transforming oncology. Dr. Weinberg also discusses the importance of diverse clinical trial participation, the challenges of precision medicine, and the potential of cancer vaccines and immunotherapies in shaping the future of lung cancer treatment.

Episode Highlights:

Psoriasis Risk Factors & Diagnosis

Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths, but emerging research on biomarkers is changing how the disease is detected and treated. Dr. Weinberg's research focuses on immunometabolic biomarkers, particularly lipid metabolites, which may serve as early indicators of lung cancer. He explains how steric acid, a specific fatty acid, is linked to macrophage inflammation and could potentially be targeted for preventative therapies. His team is working on validating these findings through mouse models and clinical studies.

The Role of Immunotherapy & Machine Learning

Dr. Weinberg highlights how COVID-19 accelerated research on immunology and vaccines, leading to a deeper understanding of how cancer vaccines could be used to improve immune responses to lung cancer treatments. He also explores the growing role of machine learning and AI in analyzing large genomic and metabolic datasets, identifying new treatment pathways, and improving precision oncology. AI-driven models are helping oncologists make more data-driven treatment decisions for lung cancer patients.

Challenges in Clinical Trials & Health Disparities

One of the biggest challenges in oncology is ensuring diverse representation in clinical trials. At the University of Illinois Cancer Center, 70% of lung cancer trial participants are African American, a significant improvement over national averages. Dr. Weinberg explains how building patient trust and addressing socioeconomic barriers are key to closing health disparities in lung cancer research. He also discusses the importance of biomarker testing, noting that only 50-60% of lung cancer patients currently receive it, despite its critical role in determining targeted treatments.

The Future of Lung Cancer Treatment

Looking ahead, Dr. Weinberg is excited about next-generation immunotherapies, including bi-specific T-cell engagers and NK cell inhibitors, which could revolutionize lung cancer treatment. He also sees cancer vaccines and cellular therapies playing a larger role in long-term disease management. As researchers continue to refine personalized medicine strategies, the integration of biomarkers, AI, and innovative clinical trial designs will be essential in improving outcomes for all lung cancer patients.

Key Takeaway:

Lung cancer research is advancing rapidly with biomarkers, immunotherapy, and AI-driven precision medicine playing a key role in early detection and treatment. Diverse clinical trial participation is essential to ensuring that new therapies are effective for all patient populations, particularly underserved communities. The future of lung cancer treatment lies in next-generation immunotherapies, cancer vaccines, and machine learning integration, which have the potential to revolutionize patient outcomes.

Resources & Links:

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Connect with Dr. Frank Weinberg: University of Illinois Cancer Center