DISCOVERIES

February 2023

New treatment approach for prostate cancer could stop resistance in its tracks

By inhibiting one enzyme, scientists from Sanford Burnham Prebys can kill prostate cancer cells when other treatments can’t. The discovery could help address the growing threat of treatment resistance in prostate cancer and also lead to improved treatments for other cancers, such as breast, skin and pancreas.

“This is the first time this enzyme has been implicated in prostate cancer, and we expect that it will prove relevant to other cancers as well,” says co-senior author Brooke Emerling, Ph.D., an associate professor at Sanford Burnham Prebys. “This could give us a whole new weapon against cancers that rely on this enzyme.”

OUR PEOPLE

Tight employment a sign of resilience: Interview with CEO David Brenner

“There is an incredible demand for researchers and scientists, and a shortage of biomedical skilled labor in general. This tight labor market and competition for talent is linked to the success of institutes and the need for world-class scientists,” says David Brenner, M.D., adding that to help meet the demand, Sanford Burnham Prebys doubled the number of students entering its graduate school this year.

Is cloud computing a game changer in cancer research?

Assistant Professor Lukas Chavez, Ph.D., uses state-of-the-art technology for precision diagnostics and for uncovering new treatment options for the most aggressive childhood brain cancers.

We spoke to Chavez about his work and asked him how modern technology—particularly cloud computing—is shifting how cancer discoveries are made.

RATINGS

Sanford Burnham Prebys earns highest rating from Charity Navigator

In February we received a 4/4 star rating and a 100% score from Charity Navigator, America’s largest and most-utilized independent charity evaluator.

A top rating on Charity Navigator means that Sanford Burnham Prebys is among the most trusted charities nationwide in terms of financial health and accountability.

Moody's Investors Service has affirmed Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute's A1 revenue bond rating

The affirmation of Sanford Burnham Prebys’ A1 rating reflects the Institute's important role as a premier medical research institution and National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center.

Fitch affirms Sanford Burnham Prebys at 'A' credit rating

Fitch Ratings is a global leader in providing credit ratings, research and informed financial opinions.

An 'A' rating reflects the Institute's solid operations and the growing strength of the Institute's financial profile.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Cancer Center Open House

You are personally invited to our Cancer Center Open House. Learn about exciting research discoveries and how new drugs are created and advanced to the clinic. Get an insider's view on what's coming in the future.

Ride with Sanford Burnham Prebys

Sanford Burnham Prebys is gearing up for Padres Pedal the Cause, an annual fundraising race that invites participants to cycle, spin, run or walk to support cancer research in San Diego. The event will take place on Saturday, March 18, 2023.

YOU MAKE EVERYTHING POSSIBLE

An act of care for 2023

From exploring pancreatic cancer treatment to genes linked to Alzheimer’s disease, you have made our efforts possible over the last 46 years. Sanford Burnham Prebys is grateful for your generosity, and we’re looking forward to a bright 2023 with you by our side.

Since you are an important part of the Sanford Burnham Prebys family, we want to share a free resource with you that is available to you and your loved ones.

Sanford Burnham Prebys has partnered with FreeWill to offer a free and easy online estate planning tool that guides you through creating your will in as little as 20 minutes. While it’s likely that you already have a will, this may help your loved ones who may not have plans in place.

Care for all I love

Prioritizing this simple act of self-care can also support Sanford Burnham Prebys with an optional legacy gift in your will. This costs nothing today but powers our cutting-edge research for generations, saving and changing countless lives. Please know that FreeWill is free to use whether or not you choose to include a gift.

For years, we’ve been committed to finding cures for human disease and improving quality of life. In 2023, let’s continue to care for ourselves and our community, so that Sanford Burnham Prebys can continue making lifesaving discoveries for years to come.