Introducing the Merkel Cell Carcinoma Collaborative (MC3) Institute: A Global Hub for MCC Translational Research
Paul Nghiem, MD, PhD, and the leadership team at UW Medicine and Fred Hutch Cancer Center, are proud to announce the establishment of the Merkel Cell Carcinoma Collaborative (MC3) Institute — a dedicated institute focused on improving the lives of patients with Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) through excellence in translational research.
“This is a significant milestone in our continued journey to cure more patients with Merkel cell carcinoma.” says Dr. Paul Nghiem, Faculty Founder and Director of the MC3 Institute, and Founding Chair of the University of Washington Department of Dermatology.
“By transitioning to an Institute, we believe we can increase collaborations with academic scientists and support projects around the world that will advance MCC research.”
The MC3 Institute will build upon more than a decade of the laboratory of Dr. Paul Nghiem’s impactful MCC research and clinical work, taking its program to new heights and strengthening its commitment to advancing innovation in the treatment of MCC.
The Nghiem Lab is one of a limited number of laboratories worldwide dedicated to the study of this rare and aggressive form of skin cancer. To assist patients and physicians unfamiliar with MCC, the Nghiem Lab developed merkelcell.org as an educational resource, beginning in 2003.
MC3 Institute Leadership Team
- Paul Nghiem, MD, PhD, Faculty Founder & Director
- Krista Lachance, MS, Director of People & Programs
- Candice Church, PhD, Director of Scientific Research
- Rima Kulikauskas, BS, Director of Specimen Repository
As part of this exciting transition, resources from the Nghiem lab will be incorporated into the MC3 Institute. The Nghiem lab will continue its work as a distinct entity, maintaining its ongoing research projects.
The new Institute is set to accelerate and streamline research and improve treatment options for patients by fostering connections and partnerships among MCC investigators, clinicians, and patient advocates from across the globe. Members of the MC3 Institute will have the ability to request valuable research tools including datasets and biospecimens to support their work, in addition to philanthropic and administrative support.
“Our patients entrusted us with a huge number of specimens,” says Dr. Nghiem, “and we want to make sure those are appropriately available to the best scientists around the world in order to make the biggest impact."
“The Institute establishes a formal pathway for scientists to request samples and clinical data,” says Krista Lachance, Director of People & Programs for the MC3 Institute. “We currently have a database of over 1,900 patients that we track over time. This data is used to write papers that change the management of the cancer.”
Training Opportunities
In addition to global collaborations, the MC3 Institute will continue the Nghiem Lab’s reputation for immersive training programs that prepare young trainees for careers in oncology, dermatology, and clinical research.
Each year, the Institute will welcome 1-2 clinical research fellows who assist patients with their questions, needs, and concerns throughout the challenging process of diagnosis, referral to Seattle (often from distant locations), and treatment. Fellows also engage in cutting-edge research, bridging the gap between scientific discovery and clinical care.
The MC3 Institute also offers an undergraduate research assistant training program for University of Washington students, providing valuable exposure to clinical and translational research.
Two Practice-Changing Preliminary Studies
The MC3 Institute will launch its research projects with two practice-changing clinical studies currently in development: one focusing on the ctDNA blood test, and the other exploring new approaches to radiation delivery.
Become a Member of the MC3 Institute
Join us! We welcome fellow MCC investigators from around the world to collaborate to cure Merkel cell carcinoma. Members will benefit from the robust collaborations between MC3 members and the greater community.
Make a Gift
We are building on our expertise and decades of discovery to strengthen our understanding of MCC so we can improve detection and treatment for people and families facing this disease.
