Because of the work that led to this advance, many young people are entering the cancer field, which will help Optimize the Workforce.
Cellular therapy for solid tumors is the latest landmark breakthrough in cancer treatment ( Develop Effective Treatments) and is predicted to change medical oncology practice ( Deliver Optimal Care) in this new era of cancer research. The newly approved tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) therapy for advanced melanoma represents the ideal scenario of cancer research: findings from decades of rigorous basic science research at the NCI (pioneered by Dr. Steven Rosenberg of the NCI Center for Cancer Research), translated into clinical research at an NCI-designated cancer center, partnership with a pharmaceutical company, and approval by the FDA ( 14–16). Numerous contributions throughout a nearly 40-year journey led to this milestone, including by melanoma specialists who brought their disease into the immunotherapy space for the first time, and the various “failed” research results that led to success. Failing is succeeding in innovation; each lesson provides direction forward. Our partners at the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) embody this culture of innovation with their investments in high-risk, high-impact solutions in cancer and other areas ( 17). A 100% success rate means that we are not being bold enough. We set bold goals – that is what the new era of cancer research is about. The next generation of researchers are critical to this new era. Because of the work that led to this advance, many young people are entering the cancer field, which will help Optimize the Workforce. Looking at the National Cancer Plan reminds us that our work does not end with a research win. The price tag is currently very high for this drug, and we need to find ways to make the best treatment accessible to everyone who might benefit ( Eliminate Inequities).