SUMMARY
The research of Brittany L. Siontis, M.D., pertains to sarcomas, including bone and soft tissue tumors, with a particular interest in leiomyosarcomas. At present, there are no specific blood- or tissue-based biomarkers for sarcomas. Dr. Siontis' research focuses on identifying such biomarkers in an effort to improve prognostication and treatment decisions for people with sarcomas.
In addition to pursuing her collaborative biomarker work, Dr. Siontis is actively involved in clinical trials. She serves as the principal investigator for various studies exploring new targeted agents and therapeutic regimens for managing bone and soft tissue tumors.
Focus areas
- Circulating tumor DNA. Dr. Siontis serves as clinical co-lead for Project 3 of the multi-institutional Leiomyosarcoma Specialized Program of Research Excellence, which is evaluating circulating tumor DNA in people with advanced leiomyosarcomas receiving first-line chemotherapy. Circulating tumor DNA comes from tumors and is found in the blood.
- Tumor-based biomarkers. Working in collaboration with Mayo Clinic experts in proteomics, Dr. Siontis is conducting a new multi-omics analysis. This study includes proteomics and phosphoproteomics of leiomyosarcoma tumor samples originating in various parts of the body. It is recognized that tumors arising from different locations behave differently yet are treated the same. By identifying inherent tumor differences, Dr. Siontis strives to improve outcomes by leveraging these findings and developing subtype-specific treatment plans.
- Clinical trials. Dr. Siontis collaborates with multidisciplinary and multinational teams to investigate new drugs and drug combinations in people with sarcomas in an effort to improve outcomes for these individuals.
Significance to patient care
Bone and soft tissue sarcomas are rare, aggressive cancers with high rates of recurrence despite aggressive therapy. Many people ultimately experience spread of the cancer with an average survival of only one or two years. Improving the understanding of the biology of these sarcomas, developing better methods for tumor monitoring and identifying effective therapies is important.
Dr. Siontis' goal is to identify tumor biomarkers, whether they be in the blood, the tumor itself or both, that can be used to further the understanding of how these tumors behave. Furthermore, she strives to use this information in developing therapies that are more targeted and specific and thereby more effective to improve outcomes for individuals.
Professional highlights
- Genetics and Genomics of Leiomyosarcoma Specialized Program of Research Excellence, National Cancer Institute:
- Clinical co-leader, Project 3, 2023-2028.
- Developmental Research Program grant, 2023-2025.