The MDS Beacon™

Potential MDS Drug To Resume Testing As Lymphoma Treatment– On September 21, MethylGene Inc. announced it would resume developing MGCD0103 (mocetinostat), a drug that has been shown to successfully treat various cancers.  A Phase 1/2 study has demonstrated that it can help treat myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myelogenous leukemia when administered in combination with Vidaza (azacitidine).  MGCD0103 was placed on a partial hold by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration due to concerns that the drug may increase the risk of certain heart conditions.  Enrollment for a Phase 2 study of patients with refractory follicular lymphoma is expected to resume as soon as possible.  For more information, please see the related press release. 

Emerging Therapies In Blood Cancer Educational Program – The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) will host a free educational program on emerging therapies in blood cancers, including myelodysplastic syndromes, at the John Jones Cancer Center in Morgantown, WV .  Participants are encouraged to bring any questions about clinical trials and advances in the field of blood cancer treatment, and participate in a group discussion.  The event will be held at the John Jones Cancer Center at the West Virginia University Hospital on Tuesday, September 29, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.  For more information, please visit the LLS Web site or register online. 

Light the Night Walk – Join The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society on this special walk to raise funds for blood cancers.  Participants can literally light the night by carrying illuminated balloons, as part of a community that is bringing hope to the fight against blood cancers.  Participate on September 30 in Waterford, CT or October 1 in Dayton, OH.

For a more detailed listing of MDS-related events, please check the MDS Beacon Events Calendar.