NYC Gazette

Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have discovered blood biomarkers that could aid in selecting treatments for patients with recurrent endometrial cancer. Published in the Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer, the study identifies proteins that may predict patient responses to cabozantinib and nivolumab.

Endometrial cancer affects over 66,000 women annually in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, 69,120 new cases and 13,860 deaths are expected in 2025. While immunotherapy is a significant treatment option, its effectiveness varies. This study is pioneering in exploring blood markers for personalized treatment.

The research found that patients with lower levels of certain macrophage-related proteins responded better to combination therapy. Specific immune activation markers were linked to longer survival, while high neutrophil-related protein levels were associated with more side effects. Notably, some patients who had stopped responding to other treatments benefited from this combination.

Lead researcher Sacha Gnjatic stated: "Our research provides new insights into how the immune system responds to cancer treatment." He emphasized that identifying specific blood biomarkers can lead to personalized and effective strategies, improving survival rates while reducing side effects.

The study involved contributions from multiple institutions including Princess Margaret Hospital and MD Anderson Cancer Center, funded by the National Cancer Institute.

Mount Sinai's Icahn School of Medicine is known for its research and educational programs and ranks 11th nationwide in NIH funding. It offers various degree programs and has a large graduate medical education program.