Background: 

Enfortumab vedotin (EV) is an antibody-drug-conjugate that delivers potent chemotherapy directly to urothelial cancer cells by attaching to a surface protein called Nectin-4. The amount of this protein can vary between tumors and change as cancer evolves, potentially making treatment less effective. Our research seeks to understand these changes and find ways to overcome treatment resistance.

What the study will address

We are studying how retinoic acid, a substance derived from vitamin A, controls how cells develop and behave. Our laboratory findings suggest that activating the retinoic acid pathway can increase Nectin-4 on bladder cancer cells and make them more sensitive to EV. With BCAN’s support, we will investigate precisely how this works by looking directly at patient tumor samples and cells in culture.

Why it matters

Our goal is to identify which patients are most likely to benefit from treatment and develop combinations that prevent or reverse resistance. These laboratory studies could guide future clinical trials aimed at achieving longer-lasting cancer control while reducing time spent on ineffective treatments. For patients and caregivers, this could mean fewer treatment setbacks, less uncertainty, and more time living well together. BCAN’s Continuity Grant will help sustain this research during a critical funding gap, preserving progress toward more effective, personalized bladder cancer care.