For the third consecutive year, these grants—funded entirely by the extraordinary generosity of our philanthropic donors represent a critical investment in cutting-edge research across thoracic cancers. We are thrilled to support three projects that hold immense promise for improving prevention, treatment, and quality of life for patients and their families.
Focus on ALK-Positive NSCLC and Mesothelioma Research
We received a multitude of high-quality applications, and the chosen projects hold immense potential to benefit the thoracic research community. The three recipients for the 2026 Inspirational Research Grants are focused on advancing research in ALK-positive Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and mesothelioma.
DYNAMALK-PET: A Correlation Study of DYNAMic ct-DNA and PET in ALK+ NSCLC
Recipient: A/Prof Mal Itchins
DYNAMIC-PET, a sub-study of DYNAMALK, will directly compare what is seen on PET scans with what is found in the blood. By combining PET imaging with ctDNA, this research aims to give doctors earlier and more accurate ways to decide whether to continue or change treatment—improving care and outcomes for patient as ALK+ NSCLC can be detected earlier and more accurately than with imaging alone.
Biomarker Discovery for Predicting Immunotherapy Response in Mesothelioma Patients
Recipient: A/Prof Yuen Yee Cheng
Mesothelioma is an incredibly aggressive and challenging lung lining cancer, and current treatments often fall short. Excitingly, research has identified a highly promising new strategy: a combination immunotherapy using two immune-boosting drugs, PD-1 and TIGIT inhibitors. In mouse models, this treatment achieved a remarkable 90% success rate in shrinking tumours after just three doses, with the mice remaining cancer-free for over a year.
This new project is now focused on translating this success to patients by identifying biomarkers: the biological clues that predict who will benefit most from this drug combination. The initial step involves repeating the mouse experiment, allowing for the collection of samples before tumours fully disappear. Then, using advanced single-cell analysis and bioinformatics at UTS, the specific genes and pathways driving tumour shrinkage will be pinpointed. Finally, the most promising biomarkers will be rigorously tested in human mesothelioma patient samples to ensure they can effectively guide clinical decisions and pave the way for even better treatments. Based on the results, the learnings will be used in designing miRNA-based drugs to explore new treatment options that could offer better results with fewer side effects for patients.
ALK Positive Australia and TOGA Collaboration
In addition to the general research grants, TOGA is proud to announce a collaborative grant with ALK Positive Australia. This grant specifically supports research dedicated to ALK+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC).
Identifying Dependencies of Drug Tolerant Cells in ALK+ Lung Cancer
Recipient: Dr Dane Vassiliadis
A major challenge in cancer treatment is the emergence of Drug-Tolerant Persister (DTP) cells, which survive therapy and drive tumor relapse. Currently, little is understood about how ALK+ DTPs arise, adapt to treatment, or develop the resistance that causes relapse. Furthermore, the DTP population might be a mix of cells with different properties, complicating the search for factors that support their survival. Laboratory research has already developed powerful methods to identify the specific molecular features of DTP cells and to systematically assess how thousands of individual genes contribute to their survival.
This project will combine these two proven approaches, using an established mouse model of ALK+ DTP cells, to gain a deeper understanding of these resistant cells. The ultimate goal is to identify and validate new therapeutic targets that can be leveraged to specifically eradicate ALK+ DTP cells.
Optimising Outcomes: Translational Impact of the New Research
When lung cancer and mesothelioma research receives less funding than other cancers, TOGA recognises the importance of grants such as the Inspirational Research Grant in fighting against thoracic cancers.
“We are excited to award these grants to three outstanding research projects that are advancing our understanding of thoracic cancers from bench to bedside. We thank ALK+ Australia for their continued support and congratulate the researchers on their well-deserved awards..” – Dr Megan Sanders, CEO of TOGA
Partner with TOGA: Ensuring the Future of Inspirational Research
The future of thoracic cancer research depends on sustained support. The Inspirational Research Grant program is powered exclusively by the generosity of philanthropic donors. We invite you to contribute to this vital initiative to ensure that TOGA can continue to fund projects like these, driving forward innovation that truly improves patient outcomes.
Your contribution matters.
