Understanding and detecting rare types of melanoma in Veterans
Official title: BCCMA: Determinants and early detection of metastasis in melanoma for unmet needs of Veterans with mucosal melanomas affecting the head, neck, and other rare types
Funded at VA New Jersey Health Care System · NIH-10924813 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to find better ways to spot and treat rare types of melanoma, especially those that affect Veterans, by exploring their unique genetic features and testing new treatments in mice.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA New Jersey Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Orange, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2024 |
| Project end | September 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 1I01BX006498-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10924813 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans diagnosed with mucosal or acral melanomas.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with common types of melanoma or those not affiliated with the Veteran community may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the early detection and treatment of rare melanoma types, specifically mucosal and acral melanomas, which significantly affect Veterans. By investigating the genetic and molecular characteristics of these melanomas, the research aims to develop targeted therapies and improve patient outcomes. The study will utilize mouse models to explore the progression of these cancers and test new treatment options. The collaborative effort involves experienced researchers dedicated to melanoma, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tackling these challenging cancers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and more effective treatments for Veterans suffering from rare melanomas.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant research on common melanoma types, this approach focusing on rare melanomas in Veterans is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
VA New Jersey Health Care System
East Orange, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Suzie — VA New Jersey Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Chen, Suzie
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.