Community Outreach

Committed to sharing the latest research

Trainees sharing research posters

The MC3 Institute aims to educate clinicians and patients regarding Merkel cell carcinoma care and updates in research.

This is unpublished

The MC3 Institute is committed to sharing the latest research and patient treatment updates with the broader Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) community.

Through our educational website, merkelcell.org, and annual events, we aim to connect patients, clinicians, and scientists with trusted information and opportunities for collaboration.

Website to share knowledge

Founded in 2004 by the Nghiem Lab, merkelcell.org is a critical resource for patients, physicians, and researchers navigating the complexities of this rare disease.  

Merkelcell.org serves multiple vital functions: 

  • Authoritative Information: A trusted source for patients and clinicians who may be unfamiliar with MCC, offering guidance on diagnosis, treatment, clinical trials, and disease management. 
  • Research Updates: An efficient platform to share the latest findings and breakthroughs with the global MCC community. 
  • Timely Updates: Our team ensures the website’s news and publication summaries are refreshed monthly so visitors stay informed of emerging developments. Subscribers can opt in to receive a monthly newsletter featuring article summaries and key updates.
merkelcell.org homepage screenshot

Events to connect the greater MCC Community 

The MC3 Institute hosts annual events to engage and connect MCC patients, families, clinicians, and researchers. Updates and details for these events can be found on merkelcell.org

Annual Merkel CELLebration Dinner Event

This event occurs on the first Monday after Labor Day in September and includes over 250 people (patients, family members, clinicians, scientists, trainees, and industry partners). In addition to dinner, there are laboratory tours and a presentation including new developments in MCC management and clinical trials.  

To watch recordings from previous Merkel CELLebration Dinners, please visit: Merkel Dinner Page

Four scenes from annual merkel dinner
2024 Merkel CELLebration

MCC Multi-Center Interest Group (MMIG) Annual Meeting

The MMIG meeting started in 2006 as a collaborative effort focused on advancing translational research and improving care for patients with MCC. 

Held annually on the Friday evening of the American Academy of Dermatology conference, the MMIG meeting provides a platform for scientists and clinicians worldwide to share key research findings and foster collaboration. The event is accessible in-person and virtually, ensuring global participation and engagement. 

To view updates and summaries from past MMIG meetings, please visit our MMIG webpage