image: The November tip sheet from Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center highlights a new combination therapy that may one day help overcome endocrine resistance in breast cancer. Other topics include a new initiative that aims to eliminate cervical cancers, while a new institute recognizes the vital role of survivorship efforts in cancer care. In addition, Sylvester researchers are authors or co-authors on more than 150 oral and poster abstracts to be presented at ASH 2025 in Orlando.
Credit: Photo by Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Breast Cancer
Targeting ‘Bodyguard’ Disruptors in Breast Cancer May Help Overcome Endocrine Resistance
In a preclinical study, Sylvester researchers have found that a new combination therapy for hormone-resistant, estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer can shrink tumors, reduce the number of cancer stem cells and reprogram the immune environment to be less supportive of cancer growth. Their findings, published this month in Science Translational Medicine, shed light on why endocrine resistance occurs and how it may be overcome by targeting cellular “bodyguards” in breast cancer cells.
Cervical Cancer
Sylvester, Others Collaborate to Eliminate Cervical Cancer
Sylvester, Florida’s three other NCI-designated cancer centers and the Florida Cancer Control Research Advisory Board have joined forces to lead a landmark, statewide initiative aimed at eliminating human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus responsible for nearly all cervical cancers. On Nov. 17, designated as “Cervical Cancer Elimination Day of Action,” the coalition launched a unified effort to remove barriers to prevention and ensure every woman in Florida has access to vaccination, screening and treatment.
Pancreatic Cancer
Nanoparticle Therapy Shrinks Tumors, Extends Survival in Preclinical Models
A new study has discovered that magnetoelectric nanoparticles – tiny, wirelessly controlled particles activated by magnetic fields – can both locate and destroy pancreatic tumors in preclinical models. This technology, developed by Sylvester scientists and University of Miami engineers in collaboration with Moffitt Cancer Center and Cellular Nanomed, offers a potentially new, minimally invasive way to treat one of the deadliest cancers. The study appeared this month in Advanced Science.
Cancer Survivorship
New Institute Launch Marks Giant Leap for Cancer Survivors (Video Available)
Recognizing the vital role that survivorship efforts play in the well-being of cancer patients, Sylvester has launched its Survivorship and Supportive Care Institute (SCCI), one of only a handful of such institutes nationwide. The SCCI not only provides evidence-based care for survivors, but also offers opportunities for innovative research covering cancer care delivery, digital health and community engagement. Frank Penedo, Ph.D., is the institute’s director and Carmen Calfa, M.D., is medical director.
Lifestyle Medicine
Sylvester, UM to Train Next-Gen Experts in Exercise Oncology
Exercise as medicine is a concept gaining traction in cancer care because research and real-world observation have shown it can reduce fatigue, improve mood and lower recurrence risk. Until now, however, there were few opportunities to become certified in this budding specialty. That will change next year, when Sylvester and the University of Miami pilot an 18-month academic and internship program in exercise oncology. It’s the brainchild of Tracy Crane, Ph.D., RDN, director of lifestyle medicine, prevention and digital health at Sylvester.
ASH Annual Meeting
Sylvester Scientists Highlight Research at Hematology Annual Meeting
Sylvester physicians and other researchers will contribute to more than 150 oral and poster presentations at ASH 2025, the annual meeting and conference of the American Society of Hematology, Dec. 6-9, in Orlando, Florida. For abstracts, more information or to arrange interviews under embargo, email Sandy Van.
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