Melanoma Research Foundation

12/18/2025

On YouTube: Exploring LAG-3 Inhibitors: A New Path in Melanoma Treatment

Our recent Ask the Expert webinar explored the role of LAG-3 inhibitors in melanoma care, breaking down how this approach works, how it differs from other immunotherapies and what current clinical trials are showing.

Led by Dr. John M Kirkwood and featuring patient speaker Eugene Bradmon, the conversation highlighted the importance of informed decision-making and open discussions with care teams.

Watch the full recording:

Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore the emerging role of LAG-3 inhibitors in melanoma care. Learn how this innovative approach works, how it di...

12/18/2025

This , we’re highlighting Emma Grzelak (.Grzelak) from the Ohio State University, recipient of the 2025 Resident/Fellow Award, for her project "Inhibiting Myeloid-derived Suppressor Cells Improves Melanoma Immunotherapy". This grant was funded in memory of Bill Walter III.

Emma’s research focuses on understanding how melanoma interacts with the immune system to evade treatment and shares more below:

“Melanoma is a disease that places an incredible physical, financial and emotional burden upon our society. Treatment options for melanoma have been focused on targeting our immune system. Melanoma cells can evade and utilize our immune systems by interacting with various immune cells. Our research focuses on understanding and improving the mechanisms by which the immune system can recognize and eliminate melanoma cells. We are studying the function of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) which melanoma recruits to block our body’s ability to fight cancer cells. By understanding more about the cellular processes of MDSCs, we can work to identify treatments that are more effective at eliminating melanoma cells. As a result of this research and the support from the MRF, melanoma cancer patients may be able to experience fewer symptoms and have a prolonged life.”

Through targeted research like this, the MRF continues to support innovative science that aims to improve outcomes and quality of life for the melanoma community. Learn more: https://buff.ly/54aMfoO

12/16/2025

We’re proud to share a new educational resource created with melanoma patients and caregivers in mind: The Melanoma Patient and Caregiver Guide for Stages 2–3.

This comprehensive guide was developed to support individuals navigating stage 2 or stage 3 cutaneous melanoma, as well as the caregivers who stand alongside them. From understanding diagnosis and treatment options to managing side effects, emotional well-being and everyday questions, the guide offers clear, reliable information to help patients and caregivers feel informed, supported and empowered at every step.

The MRF is committed to providing trusted resources for the melanoma community throughout the journey. By expanding access to education and practical tools, we aim to help patients and caregivers move forward with greater clarity, confidence and hope.

Explore the full guide here:
https://buff.ly/hFyLMsT

12/16/2025

Fort Myers, thank you for showing up with incredible spirit at the Miles for Melanoma 5K! With $30,284 raised and 120 participants by our side, we’re getting closer to our goal — and your support can help take us the rest of the way. If you haven’t donated yet, there’s still time to make an impact. Every gift fuels research, support and hope for the melanoma community. Donate today! https://buff.ly/JwexbFo

12/16/2025

12/15/2025

There’s still time to make a meaningful, tax-smart gift to the MRF before the year ends — and you don’t have to give cash to make a big impact. By donating cryptocurrency, contributing appreciated stock, giving through your IRA or recommending a Donor-Advised Fund grant, you can support melanoma patients while unlocking valuable tax benefits.

To ensure your gift counts toward your 2025 tax return, be sure to complete it by tomorrow, December 16. Get started using our simple, secure online tools: https://buff.ly/GKhDbRq

12/15/2025

This holiday season, we’re reflecting with gratitude on the extraordinary impact you have made on the melanoma community. Every gift, every act of support and every moment of compassion has helped fuel breakthroughs, empower patients and bring hope to families facing their hardest days.

See how your donations have helped us extend our mission and offer hope to the melanoma community: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/endofyeargiving2025

12/11/2025

Fort Myers, we’re excited to share that Marcela Romero, Founder of Love SWFL, will be joining us as the emcee for our Miles for Melanoma 5K this Saturday, December 13!

Marcela is a content creator and social media strategist, known for producing engaging, viral content about Florida life, motherhood and lifestyle trends. Through Love SWFL, Marcela aims to support local businesses and foster a strong sense of community in the region—making her the perfect fit to help bring energy and inspiration to event day.

Online registration is now closed, but you can still register on-site. We can’t wait to see you at Jet Blue Park!

12/11/2025

We are elated to announce a significant win for melanoma prevention and public health! The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has proposed a new sunscreen ingredient/ filter known as PARSOL Shield (bemotrizinol, BEMT) to the list of approved active ingredients in sunscreen, paving the way for more options for skin cancer prevention.

Today, there are 16 main active ingredients approved for use in the US, lagging significantly behind the 30 active ingredients approved for use in Europe. Today’s milestone denotes the first time a new ingredient was added to the US approved list since 1999.

PARSOL Shield protects against protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Regarding this milestone, MRF Board Member and TODAY Show contributor, Dr. Michelle Henry shared, “What makes it [PARSOL Shield] stand out is…it fills a lot of the holes in the sunscreens that we have right now.”

Carl D’Ruiz, MPH, Head, Beauty & Care Science of dsm-firmenich offered, “The FDA’s Proposed Order adding PARSOL Shield (Bemotrizinol, BEMT) to the Over the Counter (OTC) sunscreen monograph is a pivotal step that will open the door for enhanced sunscreen products to launch in the US!”

Learn more -

The FDA is pursuing approval for a new sunscreen ingredient for the first time in 25 years, bemotrizinol (BEMT). Why is it better and when will it hit shelves?

12/11/2025

12/11/2025

We’re excited for “What’s New in Melanoma Management 2025: An Educational Symposium for Patients and Caregivers” happening this Saturday.

RSVP and join us virtually for this free program featuring leading experts from MD Anderson who will discuss the latest advances in melanoma care.

Whether you are newly diagnosed, in active treatment or supporting a loved one, this symposium offers accessible information, expert insight and practical tools to help you navigate each step of your melanoma journey. The program brings the melanoma community together in a safe, reliable and collaborative space to learn and share.

Registration is still open: https://buff.ly/UtllMp4