#United States #New York #Lung Cancer Research #Bayer Pharmaceuticals #HER2 Mutations

Lung Cancer Research Foundation and Bayer Collaborate for Impactful Research

On January 7, 2025, the Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF) revealed a significant funding opportunity aimed at promoting research focused on lung cancers affected by HER2 mutations. This initiative, made possible through collaboration with Bayer Pharmaceuticals, carries a $500,000 award, known as the LCRF|Bayer Research Award, which will support innovative therapeutic strategies over a period of two years.

The Need for Innovative Approaches

Lung cancers caused by HER2 alterations have exhibited limited successful treatment options through existing immunotherapeutic strategies, particularly those targeting EGFR or HER2 mutations. This inadequacy underlines the urgent need for more advanced research that can lead to effective treatment solutions. Current therapeutic avenues have not shown curative potential, necessitating fresh approaches to comprehensively understand tumor responses and the mechanisms behind their resistance.

LCRF aims to create a clear path to progress in this area by prioritizing the exploration of HER2 as an oncogenic driver and the development of never-before-seen therapeutic strategies that could potentially benefit patients suffering from HER2-mutant and HER2-altered tumors.

Project Focus and Requirements

The projects supported under this grant will delve into important mechanistic queries that obfuscate understanding in lung cancer treatment, alongside the development of therapeutic advancements that span the entire patient care journey. Research teams are strongly encouraged to incorporate plans for clinical trials directly within their proposals. This aspect is crucial, as it would facilitate the swift translation of groundbreaking findings into treatments that genuinely impact patient outcomes and improve longevity.

Moreover, all submissions must integrate correlative and translational research focused on HER2-driven lung cancers. Each research team must include a patient or a patient advocate as part of the project design, ensuring that the experiences and concerns of those directly affected are represented and considered.

Dr. Antoinette Wozniak, Chief Scientific Officer at LCRF, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Expanding treatment options for patients affected by HER2 mutations and alterations is vital. Through this award, we hope to support research that drives near-term breakthroughs with tangible benefits for patients.” This sentiment reflects LCRF's dedication to translating scientific innovation into actionable therapies for lung cancer patients.

Application Timeline

The process for applying for this Request for Proposals involves a two-step review. Initial Letters of Intent will be accepted until midnight on March 3, 2025. Teams selected through this phase will then be invited to submit full proposals. All applications will undergo a rigorous review process by the LCRF's Scientific Advisory Board, ensuring that the most impactful projects are duly recognized and funded.

For those interested in this unprecedented opportunity, detailed information regarding the eligibility criteria, requirements, and application deadlines can be found at LCRF.org/FundingOpportunities.

About the Lung Cancer Research Foundation

As a leading nonprofit organization, the Lung Cancer Research Foundation (LCRF) remains committed to funding pioneering research that has the potential to improve survival rates and the quality of life for lung cancer patients. With a mission centered on advancing lung cancer treatment through comprehensive research funding, LCRF has successfully awarded 428 grants, accumulating nearly $48 million—establishing itself as the foremost nonprofit entity dedicated to empowering lung cancer research.