This is a highlights summary of an oral session given at the EADV 2021 - 30^th Congress and presented by:

Dr. Elizabeth Livingstone
Essen University Hospital
Essen, Germany

The content is produced by Infomedica, the official reporting partner of EADV 2021. 

The presenting authors of the original session had no part in the creation of this conference highlights summary.

In addition, an expert commentary on the topic has been provided by:

Dr Christian Posch
Klinikum rechts der Isar - Technical University of Munich

Dr Christian Posch
Klinikum rechts der Isar - Technical University of Munich

Dr Christian Posch is a physician scientist with over 10 years of experience in clinical dermatology, and substantial productivity in melanoma and basic skin-biology research. In previous studies, Dr Posch has highlighted the critical role of the MAPK, PI3K/AKT/mTOR and cell cycle pathways for NRAS mutant melanoma maintenance. These investigations have resulted in the discovery and characterisation of effective targeted inhibitor combinations for the treatment of NRAS mutant melanoma. To further improve the activity of small molecule inhibitors, Dr Posch has explored the use of nanotechnology for precise tumour-targeting and delivery of cancer therapeutics. In a collaborative effort, Dr Posch developed gold-nanoparticle constructs, equipped with a novel inhibitor-release, and an aptamer-based targeting system, which boost inhibitor efficacy in preclinical melanoma models. Additionally, Dr Posch has discovered novel signalling networks of the PD-1 receptor on cancer cells in different cancer entities. Select members of these signalling cascades are currently investigated for their potential as biomarkers of response to anti-PD-1 therapy.

Currently, Dr Posch's lab focuses on senescence and senescence-escape in early melanoma development. The team are convinced that the fundamental processes of cancer initiation and the biological processes of aging are heavily intertwined.

Dr Posch's clinical responsibilities include the management of patients with different (cutaneous) neoplasms and complex dermatological diseases. In 2018 Dr Posch joined the team of the Department for Dermatology at the Technical University of Munich (Klinikum rechts der Isar) to head their skin cancer centre. 

 

Disclosures: 
Dr Posch received honoraria, travel support and consultation fees from: BMS, MSD, Novartis, Roche, Pierre Fabre, Sun Pharmaceuticals, Almirall, Sanofi and PelPharma. 

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