The Colorectal Cancer Alliance’s philanthropic research fund, Project Cure CRC, has announced another awardee. Kevin Van Der Jeught, Ph.D., of the University of Miami, will receive $200,000 over two years.

Van Der Jeught, an assistant professor of microbiology and immunology, will accelerate science to end colorectal cancer by improving intratumoral mRNA vaccination strategies for colorectal cancer by targeting immune checkpoints to enhance anti-tumor immune responses. 

With this funding, Van Der Jeught could identify new treatment options for CRC patients and shape the design of an upcoming phase I CRC intratumoral mRNA clinical trial.

The Alliance’s Project Cure CRC seeks to create major breakthroughs in colorectal cancer diagnosis, treatment, metastasis, and survivorship. Its goal is to provide $100 million to accelerate urgent research leading to cures.

“We are in a race against time to help the millions of Americans and their families affected by colorectal cancer,” says Michael Sapienza, CEO of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. “We congratulate Van Der Jeught and look forward to his progress.”

Colorectal cancer is the nation’s second deadliest cancer, and the disease is on the rise in younger people. However, it remains less known and less funded than other cancers. This year, more than 150,000 people are expected to be diagnosed with the disease, and more than 50,000 could die. 

The Alliance, the largest organization dedicated to ending colorectal cancer, invites the public, corporations, foundations, and philanthropic individuals to join our mission by contributing to Project Cure CRC. In addition, the Alliance seeks new ideas for mCRC research with special attention given to immunotherapy-based studies and research focused on BRCA1, BRAF, TP53, TME, and associated pathway genes. 

For more information on Project Cure CRC, to donate, or to learn more about submitting a research proposal please visit colorectalcancer.org/research/research-investments/project-cure-crc.