Community Foundation of Broward Awards $900,000 in Grants for Cancer Research

The Community Foundation of Broward has taken a significant step forward in the fight against cancer by awarding two new grants totaling $900,000. These grants are directed towards groundbreaking research projects at Memorial Foundation and Nova Southeastern University (NSU), focusing on lung cancer biomarkers and precision therapy, and exosome-based immunotherapies for melanoma, respectively. This initiative underscores the Foundation’s commitment to making cutting-edge cancer treatments and research more accessible to the residents of Broward County, particularly those in underserved communities.

The first grant, awarded to Memorial Foundation, will support the expansion of a biobank dedicated to lung cancer research. This project, a collaboration between the Memorial Cancer Institute and Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, aims to collect and analyze samples from a diverse group of patients. The research is expected to lead to the discovery of predictive and prognostic biomarkers, enabling personalized treatment plans based on tumor biology. Dr. Luis E. Raez, the principal investigator, highlights the potential of this project to revolutionize lung cancer treatment.

The second grant goes to NSU for research on exosome-based immunotherapies for melanoma. This study will explore how exosomes from melanoma cells treated with H1/H2 inhibitors affect the immune system, potentially leading to more effective treatments. The research team, led by Dr. Dmitriy Minond and Dr. Vladimir Beljanski, aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies that could significantly improve outcomes for melanoma patients.

These grants are part of the Community Foundation’s broader effort to address health equity gaps in Broward County. By prioritizing inclusive care and supporting innovative research, the Foundation aims to ensure that all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status, have access to the best possible cancer treatments. Since 2016, the Foundation and its fundholders have invested over $3 million in cancer research, demonstrating a long-term commitment to advancing medical science and improving patient care in the community.

Jennifer O’Flannery Anderson, Ph.D., President/CEO of the Community Foundation, emphasized the role of local philanthropists in making these grants possible. Their support not only fuels new discoveries but also leverages additional funding, amplifying the impact of each dollar contributed. This collaborative approach exemplifies how community engagement can drive significant advancements in healthcare and research.

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