Mass General Cancer Center

07/18/2025

A recent paper published in Cell Reports Medicine, referred to as, “Overcoming resistance to immunotherapy by targeting CD38 in human tumor explants,” authored by Or-Yam Revach, PhD, a postdoctoral research fellow, and Russell W. Jenkins, MD, PhD, a physician-investigator in the Mass General Cancer Center.

Mass General Brigham researchers determine whether disrupting CD38 would restore sensitivity to cancer immunotherapy in pre-clinical models of human tumor immunity.

07/16/2025

Ever wonder what it looks like to receive proton therapy treatment for brain cancer? One of our patients, Joel, documented his experience of his first session. He shares, "[It] feels like you’re lying on a hammock." The video and the support of his care team helped put his mind at ease, leaving him feeling better about future treatments.

This video condenses a 23-minute session into 23 seconds.

07/15/2025

The Campaign for Mass General fueled breakthroughs in CAR T-cell therapy, offering new hope to patients with challenging cancers like glioblastoma, a rare and aggressive brain cancer. Community fundraisers like Mike Slonina’s A Shot For Life contribute to this revolutionary cancer care, inspiring researchers and caregivers to continue their efforts for patients like Tom Fraser and his wife, Debbie.

07/08/2025

Persistent difficulty in falling and staying asleep (insomnia) during the cancer journey is linked with higher levels of pain. It’s also associated with longer hospital stays and a greater risk of complications. Research finds that improving sleep can help you maximize your cancer treatments and quality of life.

Daniel Hall, PhD, psychologist at Mass General Brigham, specializes in insomnia and works closely with the Lifestyle Medicine Program at Mass General Cancer Center. He shares strategies for improving sleep during and after cancer treatment.

The benefits of sleep are more pronounced for people with cancer. Learn strategies for coping with insomnia during your cancer journey.

07/01/2025

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States. More than 107,000 Americans will receive this diagnosis in 2025. There's new hope for patients who receive a stage 4 diagnosis. “An estimated 20% of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer are alive 5 years after receiving a diagnosis,” says Lauren Dias, MD. “Previously, only about 1% of people could expect to live that long. In select cases, metastatic colon cancer can be cured.” Treatments vary based on the type of cancer. Learn more:

Learn how HAI pumps, targeted therapies, and liver transplants can improve longevity and quality of life for people with metastatic stage 4 colorectal cancer.

06/26/2025

Inspired by his mother’s experience at the Mass General Cancer Center, Mike Slonina founded A Shot for Life (ASFL), a sport based non-profit organization that supports cancer research initiatives. Funds raised by ASFL contribute to pioneering efforts in glioblastoma treatment, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer.

06/24/2025

Congratulations to Jen Wargo, MD, who recently received the Jonathan Kraft Prize for Excellence in Cancer Research at Mass General Cancer Center. Dr. Wargo was honored for her groundbreaking work on the microbiome, cancer immunology and her role as a mentor to the next generation of cancer researchers.

06/24/2025

Florian Fintelmann, MD, a radiologist in thoracic imaging and intervention at Mass General, breaks down 3 common myths about lung cancer.

06/20/2025

An award-winning team in the Krantz Family Center for Cancer Research is working to make immunotherapy safer and more effective for patients. “This is a key biological problem the field is facing, but because there isn’t an immediate benefit or a drug target to pursue, it can be hard to raise money for the research,” says Alexandra-Chloé Villani, PhD. “That’s what makes the recognition and funding through the Krantz Quantum Award so meaningful. With this support, and with our amazing multi-disciplinary team, we can tackle this problem and have a direct impact on patients’ lives.” http://spklr.io/6180BBEkn

06/18/2025

According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in every 250 men will develop testicular cancer at some point during their lifetime. Since signs can look like symptoms of other health conditions, it’s important to see your doctor immediately to identify the root cause. Learn more: http://spklr.io/6188BB1Dm

06/16/2025

Congratulations to the North Reading Hornets on their state championship win this weekend! The baseball team was recently at Mass General Cancer Center, celebrating their teammate Brady, who rang the bell after finishing treatment.

06/15/2025

Happy Father’s Day to all the incredible dads of the Mass General Cancer Center community!

Today, we’re highlighting Chris Kobos, shown here with his family. Chris was diagnosed with a rare chordoma at the age of 19, and received proton therapy at Mass General Cancer Center.

Now 46 years old, Chris is in good health and enjoying life with his wife, Dana, and their two children.

We’re proud to celebrate Chris and all the fathers who inspire us every day.