DSRCT Research: Current Advancements and Support Systems
Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor (DSRCT) is a rare and aggressive malignancy that requires specialized research to develop effective treatments. Because of its rarity, global research efforts are focused on personalized medicine, the creation of stable cell lines, and the funding of dedicated oncology centers to find a cure.
Key Facts
- The Stehlin Foundation provides free tumor sample testing using nude mice to identify effective chemical agents for individual patients.
- The Cory Monzingo Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that funds research at MD Anderson Cancer Center and other organizations.
- JN-DSRCT-1 is a human tumor cell line established in 2002 from a patient's pleural effusion.
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital provides access to patient-derived orthotopic xenografts (PDOX) via the Childhood Solid Tumor Network.
- Clinical trials are available for patients with advanced stages of the disease.
Personalized Testing and Clinical Trials
One of the most promising avenues for DSRCT patients is personalized medicine. The Stehlin Foundation offers a service where patients can send tumor samples free of charge. These samples are grown on nude mice—immunocompromised mice used to grow human tumors—to test various chemical agents. This process helps scientists determine which specific treatments are most effective against an individual's unique tumor profile.
For those with advanced DSRCT, participation in clinical trials offers a pathway to access experimental drugs that are currently being researched to improve patient outcomes.
Foundational Research and Biological Tools
Advancing the treatment of DSRCT requires reliable biological models. In 2002, Nishio and colleagues established JN-DSRCT-1, a novel human tumor cell line derived from the pleural effusion (fluid buildup around the lungs) of a patient with typical intra-abdominal DSRCT. This cell line serves as a critical tool for laboratory research.
Furthering these efforts, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital made resources from the Childhood Solid Tumor Network available in 2018. This network provides researchers with access to patient-derived orthotopic xenografts, which are human tumor tissues transplanted into a similar organ in a host animal to better mimic the original disease environment.
Funding and Institutional Support
Dedicated funding is essential for rare cancer research. The Cory Monzingo Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, focuses specifically on funding treatments and a cure for DSRCT. Their financial support is primarily directed toward the MD Anderson Cancer Center, though they may also fund other nonprofit cancer research organizations.
| Organization/Entity | Primary Contribution | Key Resource/Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Stehlin Foundation | Personalized Testing | Nude mice chemical agent testing |
| Cory Monzingo Foundation | Financial Funding | MD Anderson Cancer Center & nonprofits |
| St. Jude Children's Research Hospital | Biological Resources | Patient-derived orthotopic xenografts |
| Nishio et al. (2002) | Cell Line Development | JN-DSRCT-1 cell line |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Stehlin Foundation help DSRCT patients?
The foundation allows patients to send tumor samples for free testing. These samples are grown on nude mice to identify which chemical agents are most effective against that specific patient's tumor.
What is the JN-DSRCT-1 cell line?
Established in 2002 by Nishio and colleagues, JN-DSRCT-1 is a human tumor cell line derived from the pleural effusion of a patient with intra-abdominal DSRCT, used for ongoing research.
Who funds DSRCT research through the Cory Monzingo Foundation?
The Cory Monzingo Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that provides funding to the MD Anderson Cancer Center and other nonprofit cancer research organizations.
What resources does St. Jude Children's Research Hospital provide?
Since 2018, St. Jude has provided access to patient-derived orthotopic xenografts through the Childhood Solid Tumor Network upon request.
Are there options for patients with advanced DSRCT?
Patients with advanced DSRCT may qualify for clinical trials that are testing new drugs to treat the disease.