2025 Brian D. Novis Grant Recipients

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a type of blood cancer where abnormal plasma cells accumulate uncontrollably in the bone marrow. The MYC gene is commonly altered in MM, accelerating tumor growth and disease progression.Targeting MYC directly is challenging due to its complexity. The objective of this study is to investigate the gene RUVBL1 as a potential target to selectively eliminate MM cells overexpressing MYC and to evaluate a specific RUVBL1 inhibitor as a new potential treatment for this subset of MM patients. These efforts aim to improve survival and quality of life of MM patients by exploring innovative treatment approaches.

Tremendous progress has been achieved in the field of multiple myeloma, including significant changes in the treatment landscape. This made long-term disease control a realistic therapy goal for many patients. However, the requirement for continuous treatment to maintain disease control compromises quality of life and highlights the need for curative approaches. We believe that new drug classes specifically targeting plasma cell specific dependencies are key to achieve a myeloma cure. This study investigates novel approaches to target IRF4, the most essential myeloma gene and highly specific oncogenic driver of myeloma.

This project aims to understand how certain blood cancer cells in multiple myeloma (MM) spread and resist treatment. We will study rare cancer cells in the bloodstream and bone marrow, examining their unique features and genetic makeup. By focusing on these cells, we hope to discover why some patients experience relapse even after intensive therapy and identify potential new treatments to prevent the cancer from coming back. Ultimately, our research seeks to improve outcomes for MM patients by targeting the most stubborn cancer cells responsible for disease spread and recurrence.