The problem: understanding the biology of ALK+ lung cancer
ALK-positive lung cancer is a subtype of lung cancer which carries a mutation or change involving a gene called ALK (anaplastic lymphoma kinase). About 5 out of every 100 non-small cell lung cancers (5%) are ALK-positive. A better understanding of the biology of the ALK-positive subtype can help explain why some treatments stop being effective. This increased understanding can also lead to the development of better treatment options for people with ALK-positive lung cancer.
The ENIGMA+ study
People who signed up for this study through our medical research consortium, the Addario Medical Research Institute (ALCMI), provided saliva (spit), tissue from previous biopsies, interview information about their cancer diagnosis, and copies of medical records for the study. These were used with the aim of better understanding the biology of the ALK-positive subtype.
SPARK is closed for enrollment. The study has reached an important stage in its investigation and is preparing to present its findings.
GO2 for Lung Cancer’s involvement
The study is being led by Jessica J. Lin, MD at the Massachusetts General Hospital in collaboration with ALCMI.