Ep 11: OpACIN-Neo

Summary In this conversation, James Larkin and Sapna Patel discuss neoadjuvant treatment in melanoma. They start by talking about the best films they've seen in the last five years, then move on to the background and rationale behind neoadjuvant therapy. They discuss the use of BRAF targeted therapy and its limitations, as well as the effectiveness of immunotherapy in the neoadjuvant setting. They also touch on the importance of biomarkers and the potential for reducing surgery and adjuvant therapy in the future. The conversation highlights the OPACIN neo study and its findings, as well as the need for further research in this area. Keywords neoadjuvant treatment, melanoma, BRAF targeted therapy, immunotherapy, biomarkers, surgery, adjuvant therapy, OPACIN neo Takeaways Neoadjuvant therapy in melanoma aims to educate the immune system and maintain operability of the tumor. BRAF targeted therapy has shown rapid responses and disease stabilization, but may not prevent recurrences in the long term. Immunotherapy in the neoadjuvant setting has shown promising results, with a better long-term outcome and potential for immunological memory. The OPACIN neo study has provided important insights into neoadjuvant immunotherapy and the identification of biomarkers. Further research is needed to optimize neoadjuvant regimens, identify patients who will benefit most, and reduce the need for surgery and adjuvant therapy. Sound Bites "The education you get while the tumor is clearly visible is stronger than the education the immune system would get if you removed it and then it was fighting microscopic cancer." "Immunotherapy gives you immunological memory that continues after you take the drug away." "The patients who got neoadjuvant therapy had a more amplified and a more diverse immune system." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Film Discussion 02:30 The Background of Neoadjuvant Treatment 03:50 Neoadjuvant Treatment with BRAF Targeted Therapy 07:26 The Promise of Immunotherapy in Neoadjuvant Treatment 08:33 The OPACINeo Study and Biomarkers 19:03 Conclusion