Synovial Sarcoma Foundation Celebrates Groundbreaking Achievement by Rachel Dr. Hurly
Dr. Hurly’s Innovative Work Aims at Improving Therapeutic Options for Patients with Synovial Sarcoma
Philadelphia, PA — The Synovial Sarcoma Foundation is proud to announce a significant milestone: Dr. Rachel Hurly, a dedicated pediatric oncology fellow from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), has been honored with the prestigious American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Young Investigator Award. Dr. Hurly conducts her research under the mentorship of Dr. Ted Laetsch at the Haldor Laboratory at the University of Pennsylvania, with support from the Synovial Sarcoma Foundation.
Dr. Hurly’s project focuses on the tumor microenvironment (TME) and its role in enabling or hindering the effectiveness of immunotherapy, specifically investigating the modulation of the TME through the inhibition of retinaldehyde dehydrogenase (RALDH). Early findings suggest that targeting RALDH could promote immune responses against the tumor and enhance the efficacy of existing immunotherapies.
Chas Spence, Executive Director and Founder of the Synovial Sarcoma Foundation, stated, “Dr. Hurly’s research holds tremendous promise for advancing our understanding of how to manipulate the tumor microenvironment to make immunotherapies more effective for children with synovial sarcoma. Her dedication and innovative approach are truly inspiring.”
Spence continued, “Our family’s journey with our son Callan’s diagnosis motivated us to become lifelong advocates for synovial sarcoma research. Dr. Hurly’s research and her strong foundation will help propel these efforts forward.”
The Foundation acknowledges the significant importance of this research, which has the potential to revolutionize the treatment landscape for pediatric sarcoma. The project’s preliminary data highlights promising avenues for future therapeutic development, aiming to improve survival rates and quality of life for young patients.
“This recognition not only underscores the significance of Dr. Hurly’s research but also emphasizes the vital role that collaborative efforts and dedicated funding play in tackling rare cancers,” added Spence. “We remain committed to supporting groundbreaking research that offers hope and new possibilities for children afflicted by synovial sarcoma and other pediatric cancers.”
The Synovial Sarcoma Foundation extends its congratulations to Dr. Hurly and her team and remains steadfast in its mission to fund innovative research, foster collaboration, and improve outcomes for pediatric sarcoma patients worldwide.
About the Synovial Sarcoma Foundation
The Synovial Sarcoma Foundation is dedicated to funding research, supporting patients and families, and advancing the understanding of synovial sarcoma and related soft tissue sarcomas. Through collaborative efforts, the Foundation aims to accelerate discoveries that lead to more effective treatments and, ultimately, cures.
