“I'm very fortunate to have this opportunity through VeloSano and to have people learn about this idea and invest in it.” - Dr. Owoyemi
Co-Investigator
Each year, hundreds of patients receive life-saving kidney transplants at Cleveland Clinic. While this is a positive outcome for many, not all stories have a happy ending. Transplant recipients receive immunosuppression to prevent kidney rejection. Unfortunately, this sometimes increases their risk of developing cancer as a result.
Navigating the intricate balance between immunosuppression and cancer treatment is at the heart of the research led by Itunu Owoyemi, MBBS, a transplant nephrologist who specializes in onco-nephrology, and Jessica Geiger, MD, a medical oncologist. Their VeloSano-funded project aims to create strategies that minimize the risk of cancer while ensuring the transplanted kidney remains healthy.
“The goal is to develop a model of clinical practice based on what we learn from our trial,” says Dr. Owoyemi. “We are checking for biomarkers that will help us predict how best to adjust the immunosuppression so patients don’t lose their allograft.”
Non-melanoma skin cancer is one of the most common cancers associated with immunosuppression. While it is generally very treatable, this instance presents a difficult challenge.
“For an immune intact patient with skin cancer, immunotherapy works beautifully,” says Dr. Geiger. “Sometimes you can avoid surgery altogether. But the issue in this case is twofold: we want to treat the cancer, but we don’t want to unnecessarily harm the transplanted kidney.”
Studies like this one are crucial in advancing our understanding and treatment of post-transplant complications. They provide valuable insights that can lead to improved patient outcomes and quality of life. This is the driving force behind events like Bike to Cure, which support groundbreaking research and foster hope for a healthier future.
“100% of funds that are donated go directly to researchers, like Dr. Owoyemi, to advance the field of cancer care in one way, shape or form,” says Dr. Geiger. “It is a celebration of camaraderie. So it’s the caregivers, doctors, nurses and everyone who participates in the care of these cancer patients as well as the cancer patients themselves and their family members. It’s kind of one big family party every year with just a great goal behind it.”
VeloSano helps bridge the gap between current challenges and future solutions for patients. Every step taken in this research is a step toward better outcomes and quality of life, ensuring that the focus remains on those who need it most.
“I’m very optimistic that we will have successful outcomes and really change the landscape globally on how to care for kidney transplant recipients who develop cancer,” says Dr. Owoyemi. “I tell people I have the best job in the world because it is such a good and collaborative team at Cleveland Clinic. I am very thankful to be here.”
100% For The Cure
