Imagine a world without cancer. That dream may still be out of reach, but researchers at The University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center are moving the needle—one clinical trial, one vaccine, one algorithm at a time.
In the latest episode of It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science, titled "One Step Closer to a Cure for Cancer," UNM gynecologic oncologist Dr. Sarah Adams discusses some of the most promising breakthroughs in cancer care—from a shelf-stable "zombie vaccine" to a new clinical trial model designed to serve more New Mexicans.
"We've made so much progress in the past five to ten years," Adams said. "It's changing the way we treat people and the outcomes they can expect."
It's not officially called the "zombie vaccine," but that's how Adams and her collaborator, materials scientist Rita Serda, describe it. The two teamed up to create a new therapeutic cancer vaccine using tumor cells coated in silica.
"The cells are dead on the inside, but look the same on the outside," Adams said. "That coating allows us to teach the immune system what to attack."
Tested successfully in mice with ovarian and colon cancer, the vaccine could move into human clinical trials in the next few years. Unlike other cancer vaccines that require ultra-cold storage, this one can be dehydrated and stored at room temperature, making it a game-changer for global access.
Another revolution is taking place in UNM's approach to clinical trials. The UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center, led by researchers like Dr. Ursa Brown-Glaberman, is decentralizing trials by partnering with community providers across New Mexico.
"Patients used to drive six hours just to access trials in Albuquerque," Adams said. "Now we're bringing the treatments to them."
The collaborative model is already being recognized nationally and includes monthly Zoom meetings between UNM researchers and community oncologists to open trials, reduce disparities, and better serve rural patients.
Historically, clinical trials focused on the "maximum tolerated dose"—the highest amount of a drug a person could handle. But that's changing, according to Adams. New trials now look at the "maximum effective dose," aiming for efficiency without excess toxicity.
This shift is also part of a growing trend toward pragmatic clinical trials, which have looser enrollment restrictions, faster timelines, and a more real-world approach to treatment delivery.
UNM researchers are also exploring how Artificial Intelligence can aid in cancer detection and treatment. New faculty member Dr. Avinash Sahu, recruited from Harvard, is using AI to match patients to treatments based on their tumor's genetic profile.
His model may even predict which patients should be enrolled in early trials—potentially accelerating development timelines and improving patient outcomes.
"We're asking questions we couldn't ask before," Adams said. "It's a whole new way of thinking."
From population data to personalized medicine, UNM is expanding its cancer research in every direction. A new data commons project, built in partnership with RS21, will compile health records, census data, and tumor registries to examine environmental and geographic cancer risks specific to New Mexico.
Meanwhile, UNM is leading a federally-funded uterine cancer research initiative—one of only three in the country—focused on new hormone therapies and fertility-preserving treatments for young women.
"We want all of our research to serve the people who come through our doors," Adams said. "That's the whole point."
To hear more about UNM's cancer breakthroughs, listen to It's (Probably) Not Rocket Science, available now by visiting podcast.unm.edu, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or anywhere else you get your podcasts. You can also follow IPNRS on Instagram and TikTok.
