The ImmunoVerse™

Dr. Mario Sznol, a Yale Medicine professor and Cancer Immunology Program co-director, dives into his groundbreaking work in cancer immunotherapy. He shares insights on pioneering high-dose interleukin-2 trials and the evolution of checkpoint inhibitors like anti-PD-1 and anti-CTLA-4. Discover the challenges of managing immune-related toxicities and the promise of breakthroughs in bispecific antibodies and engineered T-cells. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, Sznol emphasizes the powerful impact of immunotherapy on transforming cancer treatment.

Join Dr. Fred Locke, a pioneer in CAR T-cell therapy and Chair at Moffitt Cancer Center, as he shares his journey inspired by his father's battle with lymphoma. He discusses groundbreaking clinical trials ZUMA-1 and ZUMA-7, revealing how CAR T treatments are revolutionizing lymphoma care. Dr. Locke dives into the science behind CAR T technology, survival strategies against solid tumors, and innovative approaches like donor-derived therapies. Plus, learn how diet and exercise may enhance therapy outcomes, paving the way for outpatient care.

Dr. Thomas Gajewski, a renowned tumor immunologist at the University of Chicago, shares groundbreaking insights on 'hot' and 'cold' tumors, revolutionizing immunotherapy. He explains how the tumor microenvironment and patient genetics influence immune responses, and discusses innovative strategies to convert resistant cold tumors into responsive ones. Fascinatingly, he links the gut microbiome to immunotherapy effectiveness, revealing distinct bacterial patterns in patients. Gajewski also touches on mentorship and the role of music in building scientific community.

Dr. Elizabeth Jaffee, a prominent leader in cancer immunotherapy and Deputy Director at Johns Hopkins, shares her inspiring journey into battling pancreatic cancer. She discusses how early KRAS mutations can be targeted with vaccines to potentially prevent cancer recurrence. Dr. Jaffee emphasizes the importance of using AI in identifying high-risk patients and integrating it with genetic data for personalized prevention. She also highlights the promising results of neoadjuvant immunotherapy and the role of KRAS inhibitors in overcoming treatment resistance.

Dr. James Mulé, a leading immunotherapy researcher with three decades at the forefront, joins to reveal the transformative journey of T-cell therapies. He shares how initial skepticism led to pioneering work at the NCI, where he collaborated with legends like Steve Rosenberg. Mulé discusses groundbreaking advances in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, their FDA approval, and expanding their application beyond melanoma. He also highlights the potential of engineered immune strategies to tackle challenging cancers like pancreatic cancer, instilling hope in future therapies.

Host Dr. Patrick Hwu sits down with trailblazing immunologist Dr. Phil Greenberg of Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center to explore how engineered T cells are revolutionizing cancer treatment. From early experiments in synthetic biology to today's clinical breakthroughs, Dr. Greenberg shares his decades-long journey to harness and rewire the immune system, turning obstacles into opportunities and transforming science fiction into standard of care.

In this illuminating conversation, Dr. Steven A. Rosenberg, the Chief of the Surgery Branch at the National Cancer Institute, shares his pioneering journey in cancer immunotherapy. He discusses his early motivations and the moment he recognized the immune system's potential in battling cancer. Listeners will hear about his groundbreaking work with IL-2, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and CAR-T therapies. Rosenberg also reflects on overcoming skepticism and his vision for the future of immunotherapy, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and persistence.

Dive into the fascinating world of immunotherapy, where cutting-edge science meets cancer treatment. Hear from pioneering experts discussing groundbreaking breakthroughs and the challenges they face. Explore the journey of innovation that is reshaping medicine and offering hope to patients. Join Dr. Patrick Hwu as he guides you through this essential conversation on the future of cancer care.