STAR-MBM aims to unravel the mechanisms of therapy resistance in patients with melanoma brain metastases (MBM) using a personalized approach. This will be achieved through spatial transcriptomics, genetic profiling, as well as preclinical and in-silico models. The goal is to establish the foundation for new therapeutic concepts that enable more effective treatment of MBM.
First-line therapies targeting the overactive BRAF kinase (BRAFi) initially show high efficacy but fail to provide lasting control over MBM due to acquired or intrinsic resistance mechanisms. These therapy-resistant tumor cells lead to progressive intracranial disease in 40–60% of patients, resulting in a very poor prognosis.
The STAR-MBM research consortium has already identified activation of the MET tyrosine kinase receptor in MBM, which may mediate therapy resistance. Building on this knowledge, the pharmacogenomic research project will test and develop new highly effective therapeutic approaches. The overarching vision is to combat therapy resistance in patients with MBM through personalized strategies.
The project is part of the "EP PerMed (European Partnership for Personalized Medicine)" under the Horizon Europe framework. In Austria, the project is co-funded by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF). The research consortium includes partners such as the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, TU Dresden and University Medicine Greifswald (both Germany), Semmelweis University Budapest (Hungary), and Universitetet i Bergen (Norway).
Scientific contact:
Dr.rer.nat. Torben Redmer
Zentrum für Pathobiologie
Veterinärmedizinische Universität Wien
torben.redmer@vetmeduni.ac.at