May 2023
Circle of Inspiration: Deni Caplan's Journey
Join the Circle of Inspiration, share the inspiring story of yourself or a loved one, and support cancer research. 

What are you inspired by?

I feel blessed to be able to tell people whom I love that I love and appreciate them while I am alive and to actually feel what it means to love and be loved. 


This month, honor your mother, grandmother, or bonus mom. Tell us why she inspires you and help inspire others to raise money for the fight against cancer, and we'll share your story with the community. 

ICRF Research Investigates How to Prevent Melanoma from Traveling to the Lymphatic System
Malignant melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer – so aggressive that it can spread to other parts of the body even in very early stages. How? Dr. Shoshana Greenberger is looking at the unique role of melanosomes, the cells that produce and store pigment, and how to keep them from carrying the melanoma into the lymphatic system. 

In melanoma, we see many more lymphatic vessels around a tumor, even in the very early phases of melanoma. This is very important for the metastasis into the lymphatic system. We wanted to know how that happened.

Dr. Shoshana Greenberger
Spotlight on ICRF Researchers
Idan Cohen, PhD
Ben-Gurion University of the Negev
ICRF Research Career Development Award

A human embryo inherits genes from parental sperm and egg, and as the fetus develops, different genes are expressed (turned on) in different cells at different times: liver genes are “on” in liver cells, lung genes in lung cells, etc. Each type of cell contains a protein complex that safeguards its healthy on-off function, which can be corrupted by various factors. Dr. Cohen’s lab identified a gene-inhibiting protein linked to the life-threatening human cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, and is testing whether it can be used as a therapeutic target.
Katy Margulis, PhD
Hebrew University of Jerusalem 
ICRF-Ziontz Foundation Research Career Development Award

Two extremely dangerous skin cancers – melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma – can be successfully removed if detected early but can quickly develop into life-threatening disease if left unchecked. These cancers often resemble benign skin structures, making it difficult for a doctor to diagnose them correctly. Using a novel, non-destructive imaging technique, Dr. Margulis is trying to detect the presence of molecular patterns unique to these types of cancers in order to differentiate them from normal skin.   
Efrat Shema, PhD
Weizmann Institute of Science
ICRF Research Career Development Award

Dr. Shema is working to identify new drug targets and improve future treatments for patients with glioma, a growth of cells that starts in the brain or spinal cord. In 2022, she developed a novel technology to study changes in the modifications of the cell proteins that convert the information encoded in a gene into messenger RNA and then into a protein. Dr. Shema’s research should yield new data on how genes behave in cancer, and open the way to new therapeutic opportunities for glioma patients of all ages. 
Science At A Glance
What are Melanosomes?
Melanosomes are specialized cellular parts found within melanocytes, which are the cells responsible for producing and storing the pigment melanin. Melanosomes are unique to melanocytes and are responsible for the synthesis, storage, and transport of melanin. They distribute melanin to surrounding skin cells, helping protect the skin from UV radiation. Melanosomes also play a role in vision and hearing. Disorders affecting melanosomes can lead to various forms of skin cancer, including melanoma.
Upcoming Events
May
3
Wednesday
7:00 PM

SOLD OUT – Chicago Get On Board for Research

Thank you to everyone who has registered. If you would like to attend the event, please join our waitlist by sending an email to chicagoteam@icrfonline.org. You can still support groundbreaking women's cancer research by purchasing raffle tickets or making a donation at the link below. Thank you!

May
7
Sunday
7:00 AM
TD Five Boro Bike Tour

Sign up with Team ICRF to cycle the TD Five Boro Bike Tour. Just a few spots remain! Contact Alan Herman, National Director of Advancement, alan.herman@icrfonline.org or David Kweskin, CT Area Director, david.kweskin@icrfonline.org.

May
7
Sunday
11:00 AM
Toronto Women of Action Celebration

ICRF Toronto’s 21st Annual Women of Action Celebration at the Park Hyatt will pay tribute to four extraordinary women for their achievements in health sciences, community philanthropy and business. The 2023 honorees include: Pam Albert, Inspiration Award; Alison Himel, Community Award; Dr. Donna Reece, Scientific Award, and Tracy Sandler, Business Award. For tickets and sponsorship opportunities contact Estee Buzaglo, Events Manager, ebuzaglo@icrf.ca.

May
23
Sunday
7:00 PM
Connecticut Get On Board for Research

Get on board for a fun evening in support of women's cancer research with ICRF Connecticut. Learn how to make a beautiful charcuterie board with instructor Julie TelRav at Temple Sinai in Stamford, CT. Contact David Kweskin, CT Area Director, david.kweskin@icrfonline.org.

June
27
Tuesday

Second Annual ICRF Tri-State Golf Outing

Join ICRF on the green for the second annual Tri-State Golf Outing at GlenArbor Golf Club in Bedford Hills, New York. Contact Alan Herman, National Director of Advancement, alan.herman@icrfonline.org or David Kweskin, CT Area Director, david.kweskin@icrfonline.org.

July
26
Wednesday

Chicago Revolving Tables Networking Event

ICRF Chicago’s signature Visions young professionals networking event is back this summer! Mark your calendars -- this unique networking event is not to be missed. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Sandy Rosen, Chicago Development Director, sandy.rosen@icrfonline.org.
August
28
Monday

Chicago Drive Fore Research Golf Classic

ICRF and Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation are teeing up to raise money for research on early detection of pancreatic cancer at the inaugural Drive Fore Research Golf Classic at Skokie Country Club in Glencoe, IL. The event is sold out!

News Roundup


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