Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) - Cancer Science

What is Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C)?

Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) is an initiative that aims to accelerate the pace of cancer research and bring innovative therapies to patients more rapidly. Established in 2008, SU2C seeks to foster collaboration among scientists and researchers from different disciplines and institutions, breaking down traditional barriers to bring forward groundbreaking treatments.

How Does SU2C Work?

SU2C funds scientific "Dream Teams", which are groups of researchers from various fields working together on specific cancer research projects. The initiative also supports individual researchers through SU2C Innovative Research Grants. These grants enable researchers to explore high-risk, high-reward ideas that could lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment.

What Types of Cancer Does SU2C Focus On?

SU2C targets a wide array of cancers, including but not limited to breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, and pancreatic cancer. The initiative also addresses rare and hard-to-treat cancers through its various funding programs.

What Have Been Some Major Achievements of SU2C?

Since its inception, SU2C has contributed to numerous breakthroughs in cancer research. Key achievements include the development of new immunotherapies, advances in genomic profiling for personalized medicine, and the discovery of new biomarkers for early cancer detection. These advancements have led to FDA approvals of several new cancer treatments.

How Are Funds Raised by SU2C?

SU2C raises funds through a variety of mechanisms, including annual television specials, charity events, and partnerships with corporate sponsors. The initiative also encourages public contributions through its website and social media campaigns.

How Can the Public Get Involved?

There are multiple ways for the public to get involved with SU2C. Individuals can donate directly through the SU2C website, participate in fundraising events, and even create their own events to raise awareness and funds. Volunteering and spreading the word about SU2C’s mission are also effective ways to contribute.

What Makes SU2C Different from Other Cancer Organizations?

One of the unique aspects of SU2C is its emphasis on collaborative research. Unlike traditional funding models that often support isolated projects, SU2C’s Dream Teams bring together experts from various fields to work on comprehensive, multidisciplinary projects. This collaborative approach is designed to expedite the translation of research findings into clinical applications.

What is the Impact of SU2C on Cancer Patients?

The ultimate goal of SU2C is to improve the lives of cancer patients by accelerating the development of new treatments and therapies. Many of the treatments that have come out of SU2C-funded research have already made their way into clinical practice, providing new options for patients and offering hope where there was little before.

What Are Future Goals for SU2C?

Looking ahead, SU2C aims to continue its mission of accelerating cancer research by funding more innovative projects and expanding its collaborative efforts. The initiative seeks to explore new areas of research, such as liquid biopsies and artificial intelligence in cancer diagnostics, to stay at the forefront of scientific advancements.