Director, UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center
Welcome to the summer issue of Synthesis. We are pleased to present an issue full of news about promising developments, positive patient outcomes and the personal touches we are bringing to cancer care.
This is both a time of excitement and challenge for UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center and the communities we serve.
Our cover story illustrates what happens when the best minds in academia work together with private industry and city leaders to create entrepreneurial science.
Referred to as a “knowledge community,” Aggie Square is a collaborative living laboratory and learning complex that will spark discoveries that we plan to take to market at a speed no one has accomplished before.
Read in this issue of Synthesis about the integral role the cancer research hub will play at Aggie Square. Researchers have moved into the innovative space with the latest biomedical technology and a spirit of determination to solve the mysteries of cancer and find cures.
Aggie Square springs to life as federal funding for cancer research comes under the microscope. The cancer center is working rigorously to meet expectations, build upon what we have achieved, and ensure that we are efficient and accountable.
You will read in this issue of Synthesis about our expanded clinical trials program, enrolling more patients than ever before. New cancer treatments, such as the use of immune checkpoint inhibitor drugs (immunotherapy) and targeted therapies, are significantly increasing patient survival rates.
It isn’t just about curing cancer, but also about helping our patients live full lives with alternative therapies. Learn about a highly innovative clinical trial that focuses on fighting blood cancers with fermented wheat germ.
So many articles to explore in this issue of Synthesis! As always, we aim to inspire with stories of grateful patients and their families giving back. You’ll read about a young sarcoma survivor whose family’s Subaru dealership has found a creative way to do just that.
Enjoy the issue. We hope Synthesis shows how we leverage your support and trust to the very best of our ability.
