#United States #Detroit #Dynami Foundation #Shoshana Rosenzweig #invasive lobular

Dynami Foundation Advances Research Grants for Invasive Lobular Breast Cancer

The Dynami Foundation is making significant strides in the realm of cancer research with the announcement of the recipient of the 2026 Conquer Cancer – Dynami Foundation Young Investigator Award (YIA). This prestigious grant, valued at $50,000, has been awarded to Dr. Shoshana Rosenzweig, a prominent radiation oncology resident and clinical researcher at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Dr. Rosenzweig's innovative research is aimed at enhancing long-term treatment outcomes and tailoring therapies specifically for individuals diagnosed with invasive lobular breast cancer (ILC), a subtype known for its unique biological characteristics and complex clinical challenges. Her project titled, "Impact of Radiation Therapy and Genomic Risk Stratification on Long Term Outcomes in Patients with Invasive Lobular Breast Cancer,” explores groundbreaking methodologies that could redefine treatment paradigms for ILC patients.

This study is significant, as it involves one of the most extensive cohorts of ILC patients ever examined, upwards of 8,000 participants. By investigating the recurrence patterns, treatment responses, and genomic variables unique to ILC, Dr. Rosenzweig seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of this underresearched cancer form. With ILC accounting for 10-15% of all breast cancer diagnoses, yet receiving minimal research funding, Dr. Rosenzweig’s project aims to fill critical gaps in the existing knowledge base.

Flora Migyanka, a breast cancer survivor herself and the visionary founder of the Dynami Foundation, emphasized the importance of such funding. She noted that this collaboration with Conquer Cancer demonstrates the essential investment required to foster change and innovation in invasive lobular breast cancer research. "For too long, patients diagnosed with lobular breast cancer, particularly those experiencing late recurrences, have been overlooked in the scientific community. Supporting emerging researchers like Dr. Rosenzweig is vital for advancing findings that could lead to improved patient care and outcomes."

Dr. Rosenzweig’s work will focus on evaluating various radiation strategies, the implications of genomic testing, and tumor DNA sequencing to identify patients at higher risk for recurrence or metastasis. This nuanced approach will not only enhance surveillance strategies but also inform personalized care protocols for lobular breast cancer patients, showcasing a shift towards individualized oncology treatment plans.

The Young Investigator Award is one of Conquer Cancer’s leading funding initiatives that support the next generation of physician-scientists, helping them transition from training to professional roles while pioneering innovative cancer research. Since its establishment, the award has recognized over 1,700 investigators globally, underscoring its impact on future cancer-related discoveries.

Beyond this award, the Dynami Foundation recently committed $250,000 towards establishing the Lobular American Research Consortium (LARC), the first collaborative effort specifically targeting invasive lobular carcinoma research. With an impressive track record of contributing over $3 million to various lobular breast cancer initiatives, the foundation's mission to catalyze scientific endeavors is unwavering.

Conclusion

The Dynami Foundation, through its visionary leadership and impactful funding, exemplifies how dedicated efforts can significantly influence cancer research. As they push for advancements in understanding and treating invasive lobular breast cancer, the hope is to uplift patient care standards and ultimately transform outcomes for those affected by this condition. As Dr. Rosenzweig embarks on this important journey, her findings may pave the way for innovative treatment pathways and enhance the understanding of ILC in the oncology landscape.