Catch up on all the latest Forbeck news and progress with our 2025 Spring Newsletter!
2025 Spring Newsletter | XL Edition William Guy Forbeck Research Foundation
Cancer’s Leading Thinkers. Together in one room.
THROUGH THE DECADES - 40 YEARS OF PROGRESS STORY BY: J.T.KEMSHEAD. PHD, FRCPATH • CHAIRMAN SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY BOARD
Forty years ago, Billy Forbeck’s clinician called me from the Children’s Hospital in Roswell Park Cancer Center, telling me he had read a report that my group had published in the clinical literature. He asked for our help in treating Billy, who had been diagnosed with neuroblastoma. Without hesitation, we shared our expertise and knowledge. Despite everyone’s best efforts, Billy sadly died of the disease. Out of this tragedy, the Forbeck Foundation was set up to honor Billy’s dying wish that something positive should come out of his illness. George and Jennifer Forbeck realized that communication between scientists and clinicians working on children’s cancers was inadequate. They were determined to overcome the barriers that stop people who work in different research areas from talking to each other. The Forbeck Foundation invites experts and young investigators to small, focused and informal meetings, where it is easy to discuss new data and set up new collaborations. In the early years of the Foundation, the main focus was on neuroblastoma. For the first time ever, a uniform staging system for neuroblastoma was developed by clinical researchers involved in the Foundation’s work. The system was adopted throughout North America, Europe, Southeast Asia and Australia. It enables investigators from these regions to compare their research findings in a standardized way. It is a miracle that a small organization such as the Forbeck Foundation was able to achieve such a major step forward in neuroblastoma research.
Looking back over the past 40 years, progress has been amazing in so many areas of science and medicine. We now have the ability to diagnose and treat a variety of diseases in ways that were not possible 40 years ago. At the same time, there has been an increase in the complexity of our clinical strategies and the terminology we use when discussing our research. These barriers to communication are like trying to talk with someone who speaks a completely different language to your own, emphasizing the need to strengthen our efforts to enhance communication in the scientific and medical communities.
STORY CONTINUES ON PAGE 2
IN THIS EDITION
1 .......... Through the Decades - 40 Years of Progress 2 .......... Forum Results 3 .......... Pediatric Survivor Series 4 .......... 2024 Forum Recaps 7 .......... Scholar Retreat Update 8 .......... 2024 Fall Scholars 9 .......... 2025 Spring Scholars
10 ........ Benefactors 11 ........ Volunteers
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Cancer’s leading thinkers. Together in one room.
THROUGH THE DECADES • CONTINUED Promoting the exchange of ideas between researchers is essential. One of the major aims of the Foundation is to facilitate interactions between investigators working in different areas of cancer research. We know that one of the best ways to achieve progress in cancer research is to encourage the cross fertilization of ideas between people working in different scientific and clinical disciplines. This has been a major goal for the Foundation over the past four decades. As the Foundation has grown, we have turned our attention to cancers other than neuroblastoma. Over the past 40 years, the development of a range of radiotherapy and drug treatments for patients with cancer has improved outcomes. In addition, new fields have also emerged that offer more effective therapeutic opportunities for patients. Two clear examples are the stimulation of a patient’s own immune system to destroy their cancer cells (immunotherapy); and personalized medicine – the optimization of treatments that target an individual’s specific disease. The Foundation has run several meetings on these novel approaches over the years and has contributed to accelerating and improving the development of new therapies. Different types of immunotherapy have been used to treat patients with a variety of diseases from childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) to breast cancer. Learning from the successes achieved in one disease accelerates therapeutic developments in other conditions. The Foundation has also focused on improving the diagnosis of cancer. Although cancer is a broad term that covers many different diseases, all cancers are easier to treat if they are identified at an early stage, rather than when the cancer has progressed (advanced cancer). Rapid diagnosis and treatment gives the patient a much better chance of a good prognosis and survival. The Foundation is not backward looking - we continue to look for new ways of diagnosing and treating a wide range of cancers. Two examples of novel approaches include: selectively starving cancer cells of the nutrients that they need to grow; and investigating why some cancer cells spread (metastasize) throughout the body while others do not. Forty years on from the establishment of the Forbeck Foundation, cancer has not yet been beaten. However, we have seen and celebrated progress in the management of many different types of cancer. But there is so much more to do. Our strategy of helping in the fight against cancer is unique. We continue to strive to make a difference. The Forbeck Foundation thanks all of its donors and hopes that you will be able to maintain your support over the coming years so that we can continue to honor Billy Forbeck’s memory and help patients live longer and healthier lives.
FORUM RESULTS
The Forbeck Foundation is improving how we track the impact of our Forums. By keeping us updated on the papers, collaborations, grants, and clinical trials that result from these discussions, you help us showcase the real-world outcomes of our work. We’ve made it easy to share your updates via a new form on our website (forbeckforums.org, under the “Forms” tab). As a thank you, we’ll be offering Forbeck Foundation swag to those who share their results. For example, Andrei Thomas-Tikhonenko, PhD, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Olga Anczuków, PhD, The Jackson Laboratory Cancer Center, co-chaired a 2023 Forum on RNA Splicing in Cancer. This collaboration led to the publication of Steering Research on mRNA Splicing in Cancer Towards Clinical Translation in Nature December 2024. To read the paper, visit: https://rdcu.be/dWuxY.
“THIS PAPER OUTLINES THE KEY DISCUSSIONS AND CHALLENGES IDENTIFIED DURING THE FORBECK FORUM, EMPHASIZING THE OBSTA- CLES TO EFFECTIVELY TARGET CANCER VULNERABILITIES CAUSED BY ABNORMAL RNA SPLICING,” SAID DR. ANCZUKÓW.
Another example comes from the 2022 Forbeck Forum on Neuroendocrine Cell Fate in Development and Cancer which led to significant progress in research and treatment. Dr. David McConkey (Johns Hopkins) and Dr. Cory Abate-Shen (Columbia) both reported new collaborations, publications, and even clinical trials stemming from the meeting. Dr. McConkey’s team is enrolling patients in a clinical trial (NCT05312671) to test whether certain cancer subtypes respond better to a combination of atezolizumab and chemotherapy. Dr. Abate-Shen’s research, inspired by Forbeck discussions, contributed to a study in European Urology on metformin’s potential benefits for prostate cancer patients. “THE FORUM’S UNIQUE “THINK TANK” ENVIRONMENT ENCOURAGED CROSS-DISCIPLINARY COLLABORATION, LEADING TO BREAK- THROUGH INSIGHTS—SUCH AS THE REALIZATION THAT NEUROENDOCRINE TUMORS IN LUNG AND PROSTATE CANCER SHARE SIMILARI- TIES, OPENING NEW POSSIBILITIES FOR TREATMENT, “SAID DR. ABATE-SHEN.
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PEDIATRIC SURVIVOR SERIES
The Forbeck Foundation is excited to partner with Curing Kids Cancer (CKC), which is celebrating its 20th anniversary and has raised over $30 million to fund pediatric cancer research and treatment. After being introduced to the Foundation, Gráinne Owen, founder of CKC, attended the February 2024 Forbeck Forum to observe how our meetings operate. Inspired by what she saw, she was eager to collaborate on a Forum series focused on addressing the key challenges facing pediatric cancer survivors. The good news is that more children are surviving cancer than ever before. However, survivors face lifelong challenges due to the toxic effects of treatment, including secondary malignancies, financial burdens, and psychological tolls. There is a significant need for focused research and support to improve long-term outcomes.
In collaboration with Gráinne and CKC, we’ve identified the first two Forums in the series that will take place October 26-29, 2025 in Lake Geneva, WI.
SUBSEQUENT CANCER RISK IN PEDIATRIC CANCER SURVIVORS Chaired by Dr. Greg Armstrong (St. Jude) and Dr. Lindsay Morton (NIH) .
While advancements in pediatric cancer treatment have led to higher survival rates, subsequent cancers remain a significant concern. These secondary cancers are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in childhood cancer survivors. This Forum will bring together an interdisciplinary group of leading experts to drive the design and execution of clinical and population studies aimed at reducing subsequent cancer risk and improving outcomes for pediatric cancer survivors. The session will explore the impact of radiotherapy, systemic therapy, genetics, and lifestyle factors in mitigating the risk of subsequent cancers. TECHNOLOGY TO ADVANCE CARE AND OUTCOMES FOR PEDIATRIC CANCER SURVIVORS Chaired by Dr. Melissa Hudson (St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital), Dr. Lisa Diller (Dana-Farber), and Dr. Tara Henderson (University of Chicago) . Adolescents and young adults with cancer (AYAs, ages 15–39) face unique challenges—balancing treatment with education, work, and social relationships—while often lacking the support and resources available to younger children and older adults. As part of the White House Cancer Moonshot’s CC-DIRECT initiative, CC-Connect has worked to identify key strategies to better support AYAs and their families. These strategies form a comprehensive framework aimed at improving outcomes and enhancing the cancer care experience for this vulnerable group. By bringing together top experts, this Forum will explore how technology and innovation can bridge gaps in care, ensuring that more young survivors receive the support, guidance, and treatment they need to thrive.
2025 FORUMS - Sex Differences in Etiology, Epidemiology, and Treatment of Cancer - Harnessing stroma-immune interactions for anti-cancer therapy - Mitochondrial Stress in Cancer - RNA Modifications in mRNA Translation and Cancer - Targeting Mitochondria in Cancer (immuno)therapy - Targeting Cancer Evolution - Persistence, Apoptosis, and Minimal Residual Disease - Nucleosome Structure and Function in Cancer - Cell Death in Cancer Therapy - AI in Cancer - Subsequent Cancer Risk After Pediatric Cancer - Technology to Advance Care and Outcomes for Pediatric Cancer Survivors - Targeting Immunometabolism for Cancer Therapy
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Cancer’s leading thinkers. Together in one room. 2024 FORUMS RECAP
INTRODUCTION Eight Forbeck Cancer Forums were held during 2024. They focused on cancer and nanotechnology; non-genetic drug tolerance; cancer genome rearrangement mechanisms; molecular mechanisms underlying metastasis; interactions between the host, environment and tumor; fusion oncogenes; cellular quiescence and tumor dormancy; and disparities amongst populations participating in cancer research. Experts, mainly from the USA and Europe, plus Forbeck Scholars and Forbeck Foundation Scientific Advisory Board members, attended each Forum. The goals of the Forums are to facilitate discussion amongst the participants and identify potential new areas of research. In addition to the discussion of new ideas and research results during the sessions, networking and informal conversations during the breaks often lead to new scientific collaborations. NOVEL DRUG DELIVERY TECHNIQUES AND NON-GENETIC DRUG TOLERANCE Nanotechnology is a disruptive technology that may have an exceptional impact on cancer research, diagnostics and therapy 1 . It can be used to target aberrant metabolic pathways in tumors; specific genetic mutations; and immune evasion mechanisms. Nanotechnology may facilitate personalized treatments that can be adapted to combat evolving cancer phenotypes. During the Forum, a diverse group of cancer biologists, tumor immunologists, nanotechnologists, and bioengineers discussed cancer and nanotechnology; nano-immune-engineering; nanovaccines; targeted delivery of antigens to dendritic cells; and genome editing. They emphasized the need to comprehend and manipulate cancer biology and immune responses by capitalizing on the precision and adaptability afforded by nanotechnology. The Forum’s dynamic and collaborative atmosphere generated enthusiasm for future gatherings with an emphasis on bioengineering and translation science to benefit patients with various cancers. The goal of the Forum on Non-genetic Drug Tolerance Mechanisms was to bring together experts from the fields of epigenetics, metabolism, single cell genomics, microbial persistence, and the emerging field of cancer persisters (a rare subpopulation of cancer cells that are involved in treatment failure) 2 . Discussions focused on defining the functional phenotype of cancer persisters; identifying innovative models to study persister cells; and devising novel strategies to target these rare minimal disease (MRD) like cells. The goal was to design studies that can provide strong clinical evidence of the existence of persister populations in different tumor types and identify ways to target them to prevent disease recurrence. The Forum provided a unique opportunity to create the intellectual infrastructure and
common ground that is needed to propel the field of cancer persistence forward. MECHANISMS UNDERLYING CANCER GROWTH AND METASTASES The Forum on cancer genome rearrangements brought together investigators, who work in cancer genomics, genome instability, cell division, DNA damage and repair, and who do not typically interact with one another³. The participants included physician-scientists, established cancer investigators, early-career investigators, active and former Forbeck Scholars, as well as new Scholars. The main topics were: mechanistic insights obtained from large scale cancer genome sequencing efforts; investigating how cells respond to various DNA lesions; how chromosome segregation defects can trigger genomic alterations; and how cancer genomes undergo punctuated evolution.
2024 FORUM TOPICS & CO-CHAIRS
1CANCER AND NANOTECHNOLOGY Jinming Gao, UT Southwestern Medical Center, TX, USA; Natalie Artzi, Harvard Medical School, MA, USA 2NON-GENETIC DRUG TOLERANCE MECHANISMS: FROM BACTERIA TO CANCER Shruti Bhatt, National University of Singapore; Singapore Anthony Letai, MD, Harvard Medical School, MA, USA 3MECHANISMS OF CANCER GENOME REARRANGEMENTS Peter Ly, UT Southwestern Medical Center; TX, USA; Titia De Lange, Rockefeller University, NY, USA; Isidro Cortes- Ciriano, European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL- EBI), Cambridge, UK 4MOLECULAR MECHANISMS DRIVING METASTASIS: MOVING DISCOVERY TOWARDS THERAPY Raul Mostoslavsky, Massachusetts General Hospital, MA, USA; Karen Vousden, Francis Crick Institute, London, UK; Salvador Aznar Benitah, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB), Barcelona, Spain 5ENVIRONMENT, HOST AND TUMOR INTERACTIONS Janelle Ayres, The Salk Institute, CA, USA; Mark Febbraio, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia 6FUSION ONCOGENE James Amatruda, University of Southern California (USC), CA, USA; Kimberly Stegmaier, Harvard University, MA, USA 7CELLULAR QUIESCENCE AND TUMOR DORMANCY Hilary Coller, UCLA, CA, USA; Sabrina L. Spencer, University of Colorado Boulder, CO, USA 8ADDRESSING DISPARITIES AMONG POPULATIONS IN CANCER RESEARCH Carla Daniela Robles Espinoza, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico; Cassie Kline, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Several important concepts emerged from the Forum, including the need to understand the mechanisms that connect the formation of structural variants to their functional impact on the tumor; understanding extrachromosomal DNA biology; using synthetic biology approaches, such as building chromosomes, to elucidate cancer biology; and identifying whether recurrent chromosomal alterations can be targeted therapeutically. Topics covered in the Forum which focused on metastasis included: novel metabolic drivers of metastatic outgrowth (glutathione transferases; polyamine and propionate metabolism; palmitoylation of laminin in immune cells; and the purine salvage pathway); a putative function for sildenafil (Viagra®) in cancer; the activities of macrophages and neutrophils in pollution-dependent lung cancer; unique exploitable features of ferroptosis, particularly in epithelial- to-mesenchymal transition; and an emerging understanding of transfer RNA synthesis in metastatic cells 4 . At the conclusion of the meeting, open questions in the field were addressed, such as identifying plasma biomarkers of metastasis for early diagnosis; the potential of AI in drug design and diagnosis; and understanding the heterogeneity of metastatic cells in relation to metastatic growth. After the Forum had concluded, the Chairs learned that several collaborations had been established at the meeting, including with the new Forbeck Scholars. An oncogene is a gene with the potential to cause cancer 6 . Genes in tumor cells are often mutated, or expressed at unusually high levels. If normal genes that promote cellular growth are up-regulated (via a gain-of-function mutation), they will predispose the cell to become malignant; these genes are termed oncogenes. Most normal cells undergo apoptosis (a programmed form of rapid cell death) when critical functions malfunction. Oncogenes usually originate as proto-oncogenes, i.e. normal genes that are involved in cell growth and proliferation or inhibition of apoptosis. Activated oncogenes can enable cells to avoid apoptosis and instead the cells survive and proliferate. Usually multiple oncogenes, plus mutated apoptotic or tumor suppressor genes, will all act together to cause cancer. Since the 1970s, dozens of oncogenes have been identified in human cancer and many cancer drugs target the proteins encoded by these oncogenes. The Forum participants discussed the latest developments in fusion oncogene research. UPDATES ON KEY ISSUES IN CANCER RESEARCH Recent research on interactions between malignant cells and the micro-environment has shown that tumor- host interactions extend far beyond the local micro- environment 5 . Tumors not only respond to, but actively affect, the functioning of host organs at distant anatomic sites. The purpose of the Environment, Host and Tumor Interactions Forum was to examine the mechanisms by
which environmental factors affect whole-body physiology, and how this affects tumor biology and pathogen host interactions. The role of the immune system in cancer was a major discussion topic at the meeting, especially as it affects the efficacy of immunotherapy. It is important to understand why some cancers respond well to immunotherapy, while others do not. Mitochondria play a more complex role in cancer evolution than previously thought. Organelles, including mitochondria, release factors that control immune responses, hypoxic responses, cellular differentiation and survival. The impact of lifestyle interventions, e.g. diet and exercise, on inflammatory processes was a major focus of the meeting. It is known that specific dietary interventions can affect tumor growth and cachexia. The Forbeck Forum on Cellular Quiescence and Tumor Dormancy focused on laboratory research into cellular mechanisms involved in tumor latency, inactivity and aging 7 . Key determinants of reversible and irreversible cell cycle arrest are being identified; and the depth of quiescence is being measured in human cells. The mechanisms by which quiescent cells maintain their proliferative potential are being analyzed. A new pathway that suppresses DNA replication competence in early quiescence has been identified. It is now known that cells can transition from quiescence to senescence without proliferating. Experiments on gene- edited colon organoids have demonstrated that a cell’s phenotype is affected by the order in which somatic mutations are introduced. The Forum provided multiple opportunities for extensive discussions by researchers working in this important field.
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Cancer’s leading thinkers. Together in one room. 2024 FORUMS RECAP
Oncologists acknowledge that certain populations experience worse cancer outcomes than other groups and that not all individuals benefit equally from new breakthroughs in cancer diagnosis and treatment 8 . A Forbeck Forum focused on the causes of these disparities and discussed ways to ensure future advances benefit all populations. Studies have shown that somatic- germline interactions influence cancer risk; for example, certain genetic mutations (e.g., ERG fusions in prostate cancer, EGFR mutations in lung cancer) are more frequent in specific populations and this may increase a person’s risk of contracting a particular cancer. However, ancestry-related variations in tumor biology are still poorly understood, and the lack of datasets from a wide range of ethnic groups restricts our ability to explore these relationships. Social determinants significantly impact cancer risk and progression; socioeconomic barriers often delay access to cancer care. Stress accelerates disease progression in experimental models, but its effects in humans is not fully understood. The Forum participants concluded that overcoming disparities in cancer research requires a multi-faceted approach that integrates genetic, environmental, and social factors into a comprehensive understanding of cancer risk and treatment. Prioritizing diversity and inclusivity in cancer research will enable the scientific community to work towards more equitable cancer care and improved outcomes for historically underrepresented populations. FORBECK CANCER FORUMS – A UNIQUE WAY OF STIMULATING NEW IDEAS IN CANCER RESEARCH The focus of the Forbeck Foundation is to stimulate multidisciplinary research into childhood and adult cancers and improve diagnostic and treatment options for people living with cancer. Forum participants enjoy the experience of discussing their research with colleagues working in related areas in a way that stimulates new scientific collaborations. Early career investigators and Forbeck Scholars are able to interact with experienced researchers in an open and effective way.
SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY BOARD
John T Kemshead, PhD, FRCPath BioMagnetic Solutions Kristina Cole, MD, PhD Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia James Amatruda, MD, PhD Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
Stephen Chanock, MD National Cancer Institute Clark Chen, MD, PhD University of Minnesota
Sara A Courtneidge, PhD, DSc Oregon Health Sciences Center
Lucy A Godley, MD, PhD Northwestern University
Jan Karlseder, PhD The Salk Institute
Edward Stites, MD, PhD Yale University
Alejandro Sweet-Cordero, MD University of California, San Francisco
Kris C Wood, PhD Duke University
FORBECK SCHOLARS ANDREW HONG,MD, PENG WU, MD, PHD, AND LORETTA LI, MD, AT THE 2024 FALL SCHOLAR RETREAT
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SCHOLAR RETREAT UPDATE
Forbeck Retreat Scholars, particularly those in their third and final year of their scholarship, expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s support of collaborative meetings. Peter Ly, PhD, of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, shared, “The Forbeck meetings and retreats have provided countless networking opportunities to engage with scientists within and outside of my field. These opportunities have brought many of us working in similar areas closer together...” Mentors and members of the Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) offered valuable career advice, feedback on presentations, and grant application guidance, fostering mutual learning and strong two-way relationships. Some Scholars have used the Forbeck model to create networks of early-career investigators, expanding beyond their institutions. In summary, the Forbeck Foundation has had a multiplier effect, impacting the research and careers of hundreds of cancer investigators. These interactions continue to ignite innovative research projects, with the hope that these collaborations will enhance our understanding of various tumors and ultimately improve the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients.
THANK YOU SCHOLAR & EVENT SPONSORS
The Adreani Family Foundation Nancy Arango Michael Bourke Big Foot Lions Club David and Dorcas Collins Edward and Robin Culbertson Dalco Metals Inc. Michelle and David Dermenjian The Eckland Family Jennifer Forbeck Jeffrey Frient Edward and Sally Frick The Gage Family Nancy Geldermann Robin & Reed Gibson Laura Hanley Marilyn Hedberg William and Helen Johnson William Kinzer Kira Spedale Foundation Marie Kropp Ann Lehman The Leineberg Foundation George Ludington Debbie & Tony Lynn Ross Lyon Catherine Maas Michael and Judy Mason Chris Napleton John O’Neill Otzen Family Foundation Ravi Patel
Lake Geneva O U T D O O R S
FRANK WHITING AND JFK THE BAND
David Raisbeck RDB Foundation Maria Rill Margaret Shaughnessy Norine Smyth* Holly Starck Tom and Julie Tefft *posthumous FORBECKFORUMS.ORG
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MEET THE FORB
MEET THE 2024 FALL FORBECK SCHOLARS
ADDRESSING DISPARITIES AMONG POPULATIONS IN CANCER RESEARCH
Carino Gurjao, PhD Columbia University SPONSORED BY: THE LEINEBERG FOUNDATION Carino, a researcher at Columbia, focuses on addressing disparities in colorectal cancer (CRC), particularly in African Americans. By analyzing a large cohort using advanced sequencing, Carino aims to uncover the genetic and environmental factors affecting CRC in under-served populations. Paulina Podszywalow-Bartnicka, PhD Yale University SPONSORED BY: THE LEINEBERG FOUNDATION Paulina studies how leukemia cells interact with bone marrow support cells, especially in resisting treatment. Her research shows that certain proteins control BRCA1, a cancer-fighting gene, making leukemia cells more responsive to specific drugs.
Mónica Cappetta, PhD Universidad de la República, Uruguay SPONSORED BY: THE MILLER FAMILY
I research cancer epigenomics, focusing on breast cancer, melanoma, and leukemia, with an emphasis on epigenetic diversity in under- represented populations. We’ve developed cost-effective methods to study genetic and environmental factors in these groups.
CELLULAR QUIESCENCE AND TUMOR DORMANCY
Lucia Borriello, PhD Temple and Fox Chase Cancer Center SPONSORED BY: THE LEINEBERG FOUNDATION My lab studies how lifestyle factors like smoking and aging affect the tumor environment, causing dormant cancer cells to become active and spread. Attending this Forum helps me stay informed, collaborate with peers, and share ideas to advance cancer research.
MECHANISMS OF CANCER GENOME REARRANGEMENTS
Timour Baslan, PhD University of Pennsylvania SPONSORED BY: MARILYN HEDBERG
Sudarshan Pinglay, PhD University Of Washington SPONSORED BY: ANN LEHMAN
Our group examines how cancer DNA changes and how those changes drive the disease. We focus on Copy Number Alterations (CNAs), which are key in cancer’s growth, spread, and resistance to treatment, especially in pancreatic, breast cancer, leukemia, and sarcoma.
My background is in synthetic biology and genomics technology development. I’ve created tools for genome writing in mammalian cells with large synthetic DNA and for analyzing large structural variants, including ecDNAs, at the single-cell level.
MOLECULAR MECHANISMS DRIVING METASTASIS
Kaloyan Tsanov, PhD Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center SPONSORED BY: MAGGIE GAGE
Christina Ferrer, PhD University of Maryland Baltimore AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
Kaloyan’s research focuses on understanding how genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors contribute to the spread of pancreatic and gastric cancer. His goal is to uncover how metastatic tumors thrive in different organs and identify potential treatment targets.
Christina investigates cancer metastasis, particularly in pancreatic cancer. Her lab focuses on understanding how cancer cells adapt at the genetic and environmental levels, with recent findings revealing a key protein that could lead to new treatments for metastatic pancreatic cancer.
ENVIRONMENT, HOST AND TUMOR INTERACTIONS
Isaac Chan, MD, PhD UT Southwestern SPONSORED BY: THE LEINEBERG FOUNDATION Isaac’s research looks at how cancer spreads to other organs and how we can stop it. He discovered that natural killer (NK) cells, which initially fight cancer cells, can be “reprogrammed” to help them spread. His team is working on understanding this process to find new ways to prevent cancer metastasis.
Lisa Sudmeier, MD, PhD Emory University SPONSORED BY: BILL KINZER
Lisa’s research aims to develop better treatments for brain metastases, focusing on strategies that utilize the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Combining immunology, cancer biology, and neuroscience, her work builds on her PhD in developmental neuroscience and postdoctoral training in CD8+ T cell biology.
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BECK SCHOLARS
FUSION ONCOGENE
Ilaria Gritti, PhD Massachusetts General Hospital AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP
Derek Janssens, PhD Fred Hutch Cancer Center SPONSORED BY: BILL KINZER
Fibrolamellar carcinoma (FLC) is a rare liver cancer in young adults caused by a gene fusion (DNAJB1-PRKACA). This fusion turns on a pathway that helps the cancer grow. My research focuses on blocking this pathway with treatments and understanding how it affects the cell’s energy centers (mitochondria)
Derek is developing new genomics technologies to study how cells commit to specific fates in diverse human tissues, focusing on DNA-binding proteins at the single-cell level. Many cancer- related fusion proteins bind to DNA, and changes in this binding may contribute to tumors’ ability to resist treatment.
MEET THE 2025 SPRING FORBECK SCHOLARS
HARNESSING STROMA-IMMUNE INTERACTIONS FOR ANTI-CANCER THERAPY
Anna-Maria Globig, MD Allen Institute for Immunology SPONSORED BY: THE LEINEBERG FOUNDATION My lab studies how nerve signals in tumors affect T cell exhaustion and immune responses in cancers like pancreatic cancer. By understanding the interactions between nerves, immune cells, and tumor cells, we aim to develop new strategies to enhance cancer treatments and overcome current therapy limitations.
Alex Papachristodoulou, PhD Columbia University Irving Medical Center SPONSORED BY: THE LEINEBERG FOUNDATION My research explores how mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) changes, often overlooked in cancer studies, drive prostate cancer. I study how mtDNA mutations and NKX3.1 loss fuel cancer progression, using unique models to uncover links between mitochondrial stress, aging, and cancer. Zhangli Su, PhD University of Alabama at Birmingham SPONSORED BY: BILL & HELEN JOHNSON My research combines experimental lab work and bioinformatics to understand how RNA modifications contribute to cancer. I study how these modifications respond to environmental and internal signals and their role in regulating RNA metabolism and signaling in cancer development. Shruthy Suresh, PhD Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology SPONSORED BY: THE SPEDALE FAMILY My lab studies how cancer cells change their metabolism to spread and evade the immune system. We found that disrupted cholesterol transport in melanoma weakens T cell responses. We’re exploring how this reshapes the tumor environment and testing if blocking a cholesterol byproduct can boost immunotherapy.
MITOCHONDRIAL STRESS IN CANCER
Emma Guilbaud, PhD Fox Chase Cancer Center SPONSORED BY: THE LEINEBERG FOUNDATION My research focuses on boosting immune responses in breast cancer (BC) after radiation therapy (RT). Since BC often resists immunotherapy, I study how targeting mitochondrial stress—like blocking mitophagy and enhancing immune signals—can strengthen RT’s anticancer effects.
RNA MODIFICATIONS IN MRNA TRANSLATION AND CANCER Steffen Fuchs, MD Charité-University Medicine Berlin SPONSORED BY: THE LEINEBERG FOUNDATION
My research focuses on how RNA molecules drive therapy resistance in childhood neuroblastoma. I study circular RNAs (circRNAs) and their role in cancer progression, explore their potential as biomarkers in liquid biopsies, and use advanced sequencing to uncover RNA changes.
TARGETING MITOCHONDRIA IN CANCER (IMMUNO)THERAPY Hannah Bell, PhD University of Michigan SPONSORED BY: THE ECKLAND FAMILY
SPONSOR A SCHOLAR Forbeck Scholars are selected through a highly competitive process. With your pledge of $1,000 a year for three years ($3,000 commitment), you are supporting a specific candidate, of your choice, to attend these meetings and to follow his/her progress over the years. Many of our scholars have become highly acclaimed researchers, directors of institutions; they are the future of cancer research.
I discovered that perforin, a T cell protein crucial for anti-tumor immunity, damages mitochondria by disrupting iron uptake. This leads to mitochondrial dysfunction. My goal is to develop therapies to enhance perforin’s effects and improve immunotherapy.
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Cancer’s leading thinkers. Together in one room.
BENEFACTORS Kathryn and Perry Accettura Adreani Family Foundation Advanced Auto Clinic American Online Giving Foundation Nancy Arango Emily Aylesworth Allison Bassing The Alben F. Bates and Clara G. Bates Foundation
IN HONOR OF
The Bartels Family David and Dorcas Collins Jamie Collins Byron Hunter Charles H. Jesser and Family Howard and JoAnn Wright
Mark Dasilva Dawn DeMarco Michelle and David Dermenjian Dave and Gale Dewar Robert Dinning Emily Doerge Peg Donnelly Trent Douglas Richard and Michele Dousman Joe Doyle Anindya Dutta MD, PhD The Eckland Family
Roberta Katz Maureen Kaufman Irene Keeley and Charles Chalko Raymond Kehm
Joseph Kelly Kelly Kerrigan Debi Keyzer William Kinzer James Kirchschlager Lauren Kjome Stephanie Klett Jackson Koller Rowena Koschkee
Stephen Beers Kristine Benker Steven Benker Big Foot Lions Club John Bollero The Bottle Shop Michael Bourke Deborah Bridges Libby Brooks Christopher Brown Fred Brzozowski Patricia Buchholtz Dan Burke
Jean Barry Robert Eckland George Forbeck William Guy “Billy “ Forbeck Jane Frackelton William H. Frackelton William H. Frackelton II Margaret Heibing Ryan C. Hodor Daniel Robert Huber Alan Jacobs IN MEMORY OF
Sara O. Edwards James Eggleston Laura Fejerman Linda Fiore
Laure Kosey Marie Kropp Bridgid Kyle Deborah and Eric Ladewig Monty and Ann Laffitte Tobey Lannert Curt and Barb Lansbery Arlena Larocca Bob Larson The Leineberg Foundation Suzy Lindblom Sandra Loebmann
Patricia Forbeck Jennifer Forbeck Mia Foster Edward and Sally Frick
Jeffrey Frient Mary B Gage Mary Garrison Toni Gatz Nicholas Gaudio Patricia Geldermann Jane Geldermann Robert and Dana Geldermann Matthew Gerdes Joyce and Jim Gerdes Eric and Diane Geschke Reed and Robin Gibson Lora Gier Richard Jr and Connie Gluth Jay and Colleen Goethal Brian Gorski Kate Gould Roger and Sherryl Griffin
Jillian Calcagno Annie Calteaux Charles Carey Brian Sikes
Kimberly Long Michael Lucero
Juels Carlson Mike Cascella Robert Ceddia Davi and Bruce Chabner Elizabeth Chmiel Mike and Ellen Condron Bridgid Kyle Jack Markwalter Colleen Claffy Susie Claffy Dennis Clancy Joseph Claps Miles and Cheryl Cohen Holly Collins Mary Collins David and Dorcas Collins Jamie Collins
George and Karen Ludington James and Bonnie Macguire Betty MacMillian Martha Maddock John and Sallie March Jennifer Martin Wendy Martorano Tony Martorano Michael and Judy Mason Laura Ann Mau Maureen McCabe Sean McClellan Mark and Liz McCloy James and Maryann McCullough McKee Family Foundation
Steven H. Jesser Joseph Leineberg Michael Patarazzi Mary Ellen Phillips Pilar Castillo Reyes Richard Ring
Howard Samuels Tommy Smothers Norine Smyth Giuseppina “Nonna” Spedale
Melissa Hahn Dave Hammerl
Laura Hanley Riley Harrell The Harvard State Bank Helen Hawkinson Juliann and Jason Hecksel Marilyn Hedberg Kelly Hernandez Dedee Hill Walter and Elizabeth Holt Jay Ieronimo
Megan McKellen Laura McKinney
Cynthia Nancy Mecum Anna Meder Niemiec Lina Melcher Ron and Lauren Miller
We want to take a moment to honor the memory of two incredible supporters whose contributions have left a lasting impact on the Foundation: Norine Smyth and Dan Huber. Their unwavering commitment and generous spirit have shaped our mission, and they will be deeply missed. Norine, whose father was a founding member, continued his legacy by serving on the board of directors in recent years. Dan’s wife and family have been integral to the board and early donors, making a significant difference in the Foundation’s history.
Patricia Moll Robert Moore Allison Moore Vanya Moritz
Joanne Jahnke Larry Jasiukaitis Aaron and Darcy Jesser Sara Jesser Florence Jesser Jesser, Ravid, Jason, Basso and Farber Erik Johansen Dr. Peter Jones and Marian Pearcy
Diana Mortimer Leigh Ann Myers Chuck J. Myers Chris Napleton Ursula Nazarkewich Nina Nicosia Lois and Kent Norby Terry Norton
Nor Coquillard Kathleen Croci Edward Culbertson Arvid Dahlstrom Todd & Dianne D’Aprile Joseph R Darnell
Patrick Joyce Nikki Kasper
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WGFRF.ORG
Spring 2025 | XL Edition
Michael Obrochta Nancy Olson Otzen Family Foundation Chris Parrilli Mary and Caesar Patarazzi Ravi Patel Megan Phillips Jose Raices David Raisbeck Samantha Ravenna Mary Reed
Lauren Roadman Kim Roll-Wallace Joni and Frank Roman Francesca and Joseph Romano Lindsey Roskoph Barbara Sander Bob and Becky Schutz, Sr. Margaret Shaughnessy David Shlensky Stuart and Linda Silver Christine Smith Lisa Smith Patrick Snyder Leo and Stephanie Somerville Roxana Sopala Lisa Spedale Kristie St Pierre Holly Starck Tobias and Shari Steivang Mark Stevens
William Stoll Caroline Sukstorf Zach Sutter Robert and Julie Tanaka Nicole Taylor Julie and Tom Tefft Robert Tesar Summer Tessem Caitie Tessem Maquis Tolari Susan Collins Tolbert
The Walter Family Denise Warner Lisa and Mike Weiler Helen and Tony Wember Ray and Pam Wenc Maureen Wheeler Catherine Williams Jeannette Windon Wines for Humanity LLC Jill Wolf Roland Wolff Victoria Wolfman Dave and Suzy Wright Donna Yankala Guang Yao Elin Zinsmeister Steven and Berta Zorich
Thomas Reed Joseph Reina Maria Rill Meghan Rill John Ring Mary Kay Ring Mollie Ring Liz Ring Linda Ritrovato
Elyce Turba Nancy Vaile Howard III Vaughan Nick Vorpagel Michelle Vranicar Elizabeth Wagner Nicole Waller
Cindy Walsdorf Julia Walsdorf
THE CHARLES H. JESSER DISTINGUISHED AMBASSADOR AWARD
At the 2024 Blue Jean Ball, we proudly introduced the Charles H. Jesser Distinguished Ambassador Award to recognize individuals whose dedication has significantly advanced the mission of the Forbeck Foundation. This award reflects the spirit of service that our chairman, Charles H. Jesser, has exemplified through his 40 years of continued commitment to the Foundation and throughout his life. We were also thrilled to announce at both the Blue Jean Ball and the 2024 Walk the Lake for Kira Faith that the first recipient of this prestigious award is Lisa Spedale. Through the Walk the Lake for Kira Faith event, Lisa has transformed personal loss into a legacy of hope, raising vital funds for cancer research in memory of her daughter, Kira. We are deeply grateful to Lisa and the Spedale family for their unwavering support of the Foundation.
LISA SPEDALE & HER FAMILY AT THE 2024 WALK THE LAKE FOR KIRA FAITH
THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS
Steve Benker Pam Braden Annie Calteaux Trent Douglas Peter Dousman Bee Eakright Josh Eakright
Kate Miller Rob and Christy Moore Leigh Ann Myers Dan Pitt Layla Raatz Lauren Roadman Joni and Frank Roman Lori Scotney Stacey Syverson Julie Tefft Lisa and Mike Weiler Pam Wenc
Debra Fitzgerald Alexandra Gavin Lisa and Brian Gorski Melissa Hahn Joe Kelly Row and Rodney Koschkee Tony Martorano Wendy Martorano
Helen Xiong Berta Zorich
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FORBECKFORUMS.ORG
P.O. BOX 1033 CARBONDALE, COLORADO 81623
My work was just published and was supported by the Forbeck Accelerator grant. One of the key experiments that was critical to this publication came from the Forbeck ‘Dark genome’ Forum as a collaboration with Dr. Kate Chiappinelli. I am always so grateful for the work you do and all of the support from the foundation! Thank you so much for all of your support! Charles Ishak, PhD Assistant Professor • University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center • 2021 Forbeck Scholar
WAYS TO GIVE TO THE FOUNDATION 1. Make a donation - Your gift supports scientific research. Donate one-time or set up a recurring monthly donation. Simply use the QR code to the left. 2. Sponsor a Scholar - Invest in the future of science with a $1,000 annual contribution for three years ($3,000 total). Scholars gain collaboration opportunities, including attendance at Forbeck Forums and Scholar Retreats. 3. Sponsor a Forum - Become a title sponsor for a 2025 Forum, covering diverse cancer types. Title sponsorship is $30,000. 4. Sponsor a Fundraiser - Help make our upcoming events a success! Explore our event lineup at wgfrf.org/events.
CONTRIBUTIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE FOR FEDERAL IRS PURPOSES. IRS FILE NUMBER: 580063499
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