#United States #Washington #Melanoma Research Alliance #MRA Biorepository #Melanoma Treatment

Advancing Melanoma Research: The Launch of the MRA Biorepository

The Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA), known as the largest private non-profit organization focused on melanoma research, has taken a significant step forward with the launch of the MRA Melanoma Biorepository. This new initiative aims to broaden the scope of melanoma research and enhance treatment options for patients.

A Crucial Resource for Rare Melanoma Subtypes

The MRA Melanoma Biorepository is set to serve as a vital resource that allows researchers access to a diverse range of high-quality tumor and healthy tissue samples donated by patients diagnosed with melanoma. While nearly 90% of melanomas develop on sun-exposed skin, there are rare subtypes, such as acral and mucosal melanomas, which emerge in areas of the body not typically exposed to sunlight, like the palms of hands, soles of feet, and mucosal linings. These often-overlooked forms of melanoma, approximately affecting 5,000 patients annually, are diagnosed later and associated with worse outcomes due to their rarity and obscurity.

Dr. Joan Levy, Chief Science Officer at MRA, emphasizes the importance of quality biospecimens in advancing cancer research. She notes, "Major breakthroughs in cancer research start with access to quality biospecimens. Through this effort, patients can directly contribute to research that will fuel the future of improved melanoma treatments."

Collaboration with the University of Colorado

In collaboration with the University of Colorado, which will serve as the host site, the MRA biorepository enables thorough investigation of melanoma biology. This initiative has the potential to uncover new therapeutic targets and identify predictive biomarkers that could significantly enhance patient outcomes.

Biorepositories are fundamental to biomedical research; they provide scientists with the necessary samples and data to understand how diseases develop, progress, and respond to various treatments. The data and preclinical tools generated from the collected samples at the MRA Melanoma Biorepository are expected to expedite the discovery of new drug targets and promote the translation of laboratory findings into clinically useful applications.

Inclusivity in Sample Donations

One of the significant strengths of the MRA Melanoma Biorepository is its accessibility. Patients across the United States are encouraged to donate samples—including tumor tissue, blood, saliva, or other fluids—during past or upcoming biopsies or surgeries, regardless of their treatment facilities. Collections may be utilized for immediate research, preserved for future use, or analyzed further for DNA, RNA, or protein studies. Furthermore, these samples can assist in creating essential scientific resources, like cell lines, tissue microarrays, and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, advancing the overall understanding of melanoma.

Kasey Couts, PhD, Assistant Professor and Co-Director of the CU Center for Rare Melanomas, expressed his excitement for this initiative, stating, "I'm thrilled to bring a decade of melanoma biobanking experience to this important MRA initiative. Biobanked samples, especially for rare melanoma subtypes, are notoriously difficult to access in the current biorepository landscape. By creating a centralized, researcher-friendly biorepository, MRA is removing a major barrier and enabling collaborative science that will drive real breakthroughs for patients."

Conclusion

The launch of the MRA Melanoma Biorepository represents a powerful commitment to enhancing melanoma research and improving patient outcomes globally. Increased participation from patients and the scientific community will undoubtedly yield significant advancements in the understanding and treatment of melanoma.

For more information about getting involved or learning about the biorepository, please visit curemelanoma.org/biorepository or email at [email protected].

About the Melanoma Research Alliance

Founded in 2007 by Debra and Leon Black, the MRA has prioritized ending suffering and death caused by melanoma by driving forward the most promising scientific research. MRA has contributed over $175 million to melanoma studies and has helped secure an additional $500 million from other sources—a testament to their dedication to this cause. Their work has led to the development and FDA approval of over 17 new therapeutic approaches for melanoma since their inception.