What is a biomarker?
A biomarker is a molecule, protein or gene that can be (or a set of them) used to predict biological processes. Unfortunately, reliable biomarkers for follicular lymphoma (FL) do not currently exist, which is why this program is so important. With rapid advances in new technologies and in understanding the complex biology of FL, now is an opportune time to focus on funding and research in this area.
The development of biomarker understanding in FL could enable early interventions during relapse, even before clinical symptoms, potentially shifting towards a preventative approach.
Patients are our driving force
The FLF’s November 2023 patient survey revealed important insights, from 700+ respondents representing all stages of FL, from over 40 countries globally. The survey revealed that FL patients’ highest priority for biomarker development was to predict at diagnosis whether they’ll need treatment right away, followed by predicting the likelihood of relapse or transformation.
The insights from the patient survey were critical in understanding the priorities for biomarker development and directly shaped the FL Biomarker Discovery Program.
You can read more about the survey and the results here.
Expert workshop shaped research program
In December 2023, The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research in collaboration with the FLF held a biomarker discovery workshop, convening a diverse group of clinical and scientific experts in lymphoma and new molecular technologies. The workshop aimed to explore the potential for developing biomarkers for FL, capitalizing on rapid advances in understanding FL’s complex biology, spatial multi-omics assessment technologies, and targeted treatment options. To ensure alignment with patient priorities, results from the global patient survey were discussed and interpreted alongside a patient representative panel.
The workshop was a huge success, identifying the current barriers to biomarker development with a path forward, and integrated patient survey outcomes to guide the research development process.
The FL Biomarker Discovery Program – launched in 2024
In March 2024, The Mark Foundation and the FLF launched the FL Biomarker Discovery Program for the ASPIRE awards drawing on scientific, clinical and patient expertise. This collaborative effort invited research proposals aimed at enhancing technologies in follicular lymphoma to cultivate biomarkers crucial for patient care. The focus was on key time points in high-risk patients, such as transformation, early relapse (POD24), and the transition from early t(14:18) clonal B cells to FL.
Biomarker development can significantly impact these patients by reducing the uncertainty of relapse and transformation, aiding in selecting the best treatment for an individual, and offering hope beyond toxic treatments and the absence of a known cure.
This program covers funding for a two-year research project, of up to $350,000. Proposals underwent rigorous evaluation by an esteemed panel of independent experts, a dedicated Patient Review Committee, and Scientific Review Committee.