Generating CAR T cells from tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes.

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies have demonstrated promising, though limited, efficacy against melanoma. We designed a model system to explore the efficacy of dual specific T cells derived from melanoma patient TILs by transduction with a Her2-specific CAR. Metastatic melanoma cells in our biobank constitutively expressed Her2 antigen.

Abnormal screens among nonmutation carriers in the High Risk Ontario Breast Screening Program.

Background: The Ontario Breast Screening Program was expanded in 2011 to offer annual MRI and mammography to women with high-risk genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1/2) and women with strong family histories and ≥25% estimated lifetime risk of breast cancer.

Oncocytic subtypes of adrenal cortical carcinoma: Aggressive in appearance yet more indolent in behavior?

Background: Adrenal cortical carcinoma is an aggressive malignancy and typically heralds a poor prognosis. The oncocytic subtype of this neoplasm is rare but may be associated with more favorable outcomes.

Methods: The Provincial Cancer Registry was searched for cases of adrenal cortical carcinoma between 1992 and 2017.

Targeting the adenosine 2A receptor enhances chimeric antigen receptor T cell efficacy.

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have been highly successful in treating hematological malignancies, including acute and chronic lymphoblastic leukemia. However, treatment of solid tumors using CAR T cells has been largely unsuccessful to date, partly because of tumor-induced immunosuppressive mechanisms, including adenosine production. Previous studies have shown that adenosine generated by tumor cells potently inhibits endogenous antitumor T cell responses through activation of adenosine 2A receptors (A2ARs).

Merkel cell carcinoma: what makes a difference?

Background: Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a cutaneous neuroendocrine tumor that may spread via lymphatics and can therefore be staged with sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB). MCC is radiosensitive and chemosensitive, although the role of adjuvant therapy is still unclear. We examined the impact of different treatments on the outcome of MCC.

Effect of biopsy type on outcomes in the treatment of primary cutaneous melanoma.

Background: Surgical excision remains the primary and only potentially curative treatment for melanoma. Although current guidelines recommend excisional biopsy as the technique of choice for evaluating lesions suspected of being primary melanomas, other biopsy types are commonly used. We sought to determine the impact of biopsy type (excisional, shave, or punch) on outcomes in melanoma.

Sentinel lymph node biopsy for melanoma: comparison of lymphocele rates by surgical technique.

Lymphocele is a common wound complication of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB). The surgical technique may play a key role in lymphocele formation. This study compared rates of postoperative lymphocele formation by different surgical techniques (Harmonic Scalpel [HS], LigaSure [LS], and traditional electrocautery with clips) after SLNB in the groin or axilla for the staging of clinically node-negative cutaneous melanoma.