Mantle Cell Lymphoma Research Initiative and Consortium

Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) is a B-cell lymphoma that gets its name because tumors are composed of cells that resemble those in the "mantle zone" of lymph nodes. It accounts for about 6% of all non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, leading to about 3,000 to 4,000 cases per year in the United States.

In late 2003, the Lymphoma Research Foundation (LRF) had the opportunity to support a special research initiative focused on this orphan disease because of an outstanding gift by a generous donor. Knowing that a focus on MCL would benefit so many who were facing this challenging disease, LRF started an MCL Research Grants program, and has to date awarded $17M to support 24 research grants.

The MCL research program grew quickly, beginning with the development of a Consortium (MCLC). The MCLC then developed educational projects to enhance their research quality and speed. Projects to date include:

• Web site: Provides patients with information about MCL, guidance on joining MCL Clinical Trials, and supports communication and collaboration among researchers
• Patient Education: Helps patients understand MCL, treatment options, and psychosocial issues as well as clinical trials and their possible benefits to the patient
• Cell Bank: Brings together MCL cell lines and makes them readily available to researchers thereby facilitating research into the nature of MCL and novel therapeutics
• Research Grants
  o Provides continuing Major Grants to senior researchers for both clinical and basic research, as well as Correlative Research Grants that will enhance the value of a clinical trial. These small projects would most often not be funded because of the scarcity of research dollars, but if carried out, would add to the quality and thoroughness of study results
  o The MCLC expects to support work in the areas of Biomarkers and Pathology as the program advances

LRF realized that this effort would have far-reaching impact in more ways than one. First and foremost, it would have a potential benefit to our understanding and treatment of lymphoma in general. Second, the program could become a model and an impetus for the development of other focused NHL programs. In fact, in 2006 LRF was pleased to announce new grants specifically focused on Follicular Lymphoma and CLL/SLL.

To learn more about MCL and the MCLC, visit www.mantlecelllymphoma.org.