Clinical Trials
The goal of the translational research conducted under the auspices of the Interdisciplinary Melanoma Cooperative Group (IMCG) since its inception in 2002 is to utilize our expanding knowledge of biology to develop and test the feasibility of melanoma-related therapies in humans and to determine the biological basis for observations made in individuals with melanoma or in populations at risk for melanoma. Clinical trials in human subjects are the mechanism through which the effectiveness and safety of the therapeutic interventions and diagnostic testing resulting from the IMCG’s laboratory research are evaluated.
Clinical trials conducted by the IMCG are funded through a variety of sources, including government agencies such as the National Institutes of Health, private foundations, and pharmaceutical and medical device companies. Individuals have also been essential to the success of the IMCG’s clinical trials program through their philanthropic generosity. These have ranged from small donations to large organized fundraising efforts like the one recently conducted by fashion designer Marc Jacobs.
IMCG clinical trials are often performed in collaboration with NYU’s Cancer Center, which is recognized and supported by the National Cancer Institute. These clinical studies have resulted in data and new knowledge and in some cases have provided information necessary for approval for the use of new diagnostic tools and therapies in the United States and worldwide.
The safety of our patients is of utmost importance to us. Patients are carefully monitored by study physicians and all clinical trials are approved of by our Institutional Review Board. Prior to entering into a clinical trial, patients generally meet with a member of our unit to discuss the study design and their suitability and eligibility to participate. Should an investigational trial be appropriate, the individual will be presented with an informed consent package for them to review and sign. This will give the prospective patient information about the study, investigational drug or therapy, patient’s rights and their responsibilities as a partner in their participation in this important scientific endeavor.
A list of current clinical trials being conducted by IMCG members is presented below. If you or someone you know is interested in participating, please contact the investigator who is conducting the trial or the IMCG for more information.
*please select "Melanoma" from the dropdown list
