Brendan Curti, M.D., wins $300,000
research grant
The award from the Prostate Cancer Foundation goes toward Dr. Curti’s research on a new immunotherapy that activates the anti-tumor effects of patients’ own T cells. This new target, OX40, is a cell surface molecule on T cells that when properly activated can induce T cells to kill cancer cells.
Ipilimumab study results published in NEJM
The immunotherapy drug improved survival in patients with metastatic melanoma, researchers found. Walter J. Urba, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Robert W. Franz Cancer Research Center in the Earle A. Chiles Research Institute, was the study’s principal investigator.
Will Redmond, Ph.D., receives $1.2 million research award
The National Institutes of Health named Providence researcher Will Redmond, Ph.D., a Pathway to Independence Award winner. The honor comes with $1.2 million, distributed over four years. Dr. Redmond will study immune-system response to cancer treatments that target specific T cells.
R. Bryan Bell, M.D., D.D.S., will lead Providence Cancer Center’s head, neck and oral cancer program. Paul Tseng, M.D., heads the gynecologic oncology program. Also, Providence welcomes medical oncologist Kelly Perlewitz, M.D.
Providence Survivor Clinic opens in the fall
Nurse practitioners can answer your patients’ questions about life after cancer and the side effects of treatment. The clinic will be located on the first floor of Providence Cancer Center at Providence Portland Medical Center. To learn more, call 503-215-7901.
Cancer center opens
a dedicated space for
breast health
The Safeway Foundation Breast Center, on the first floor of Providence Cancer Center, offers screening and diagnostic digital mammography, breast ultrasound, ultrasound-guided breast biopsy and stereotactic breast biopsy. The breast center was named in honor of the Safeway Foundation, which has raised $2.5 million for breast cancer research at Providence Cancer Center. To arrange a tour, call 503-215-6079.
Fred Meyer supports Providence Cancer Center
Fred Meyer has named Providence Cancer Center as one of four organizations it will support throughout the year. Through Nov. 15, money from coin boxes located at cash registers in more than 30 Portland-area stores will benefit cancer research. In addition, the company will direct gifts from its employee giving campaign to Providence Cancer Center.
Speaking engagements
Providence Cancer Center is host to renowned cancer specialists who are available to discuss your interests and needs along with our research and cases. We can offer CME as well. If you’re interested in a face-to-face exchange, please e-mail Cathy Betzer, cathy.betzer@providence.org, or call 503-215-6724.
