Science for the benefit of cancer research.
At the Weizmann Institute of Science, more than 50 research groups focus on developing better ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer. In fact, nearly half of Weizmann’s life sciences research is cancer-related. Institute research has provided critical knowledge about cancer in general—Weizmann scientists were the first to demonstrate that cancer can grow in stages—as well as about specific cancers, such as breast, lung, and prostate. The Institute’s collaborative teams are working to turn basic research into powerful diagnostic tools, drugs, and therapies to fight cancer—and win.
In a breakthrough that is leading to new cancer therapies, Prof. Yosef Yarden revealed the function of HER2, a protein found in particularly large amounts in breast and ovarian tumors. He received the Israel Prize, the country’s highest honor, for his work.
Prof. Zelig Eshhar pioneered cancer immunotherapy by developing CAR-T cells, which harness the patient’s immune system to fight disease. A treatment based on his method has resulted in total remission in many leukemia patients. CAR-T gene therapy made history as the first such treatment approved by the FDA.
A cancer therapy developed by a Weizmann team combines a chlorophyll-based drug with light to destroy tumors. The highly successful procedure is now approved in Mexico, India, Israel, and the European Union for treating early-stage prostate cancer.
Weizmann scientists invented the synergistic effect behind Erbitux®, an antibody-based therapy that works together with conventional chemotherapy to defeat cancer. In 2001, Erbitux® was FDA approved to treat colorectal and head and neck cancers.
A Weizmann scientist identified an enzyme that helps protect against lung cancer, finding that genetic differences may explain why some people get the disease while others, including smokers, don’t. He created a simple blood test to gauge personal risk.
When you support Weizmann Institute scientists that inspire you with their vital work, and encourage others to join your effort, you become partners in the search for meaningful solutions to the world's greatest challenges.
The Weizmann Institute believes that a fresh perspective on fighting cancer is needed: one that looks at cancer from all angles and tailors therapy to each person's specific illness. Introducing the bold new Integrated Cancer Center, a holistic approach to our complicated cancer problem.
Skin cancer – the most common cancer in the U.S. – is difficult to fight once it develops. In particular, melanomas tend to be fast-moving and all-too-frequently fatal. That's why the Weizmann Institute is investigating skin cancer from a number of perspectives, including genetic mutations and resistance to treatment.
©2021 American Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science
