The Austrian Society of Dermatology and Venereology (ÖGDV) Science Days, held in Werfenweng, Austria, from 23 – 25 January 2025, provided an exceptional platform for researchers and clinicians to share advancements in dermatology and related fields.
The event covered a wide range of topics, from gene editing and cancer research, to skin inflammation, fibrosis and wound healing. With speakers from both, academic institutions and industry, the congress sparked enthusiastic conversations and exchange of innovative ideas.
"I was excited to participate and present our latest research on repurposing statins for the treatment of aggressive skin cancers," said Dr. Daniela Stoica-Andrei, scientist at the EB House Austria and involved in the research project "Investigating the potential of statins to treat skin tumors" under supervision of Dr. Roland Zauner. An experience that culminated in one of the awards for “Best Oral Presentation”. In close cooperation with Dr. Sonja Dorfer and other research colleagues from the EB-House Austria, Dr. Stoica-Andrei is investigating the potential of statins – commonly prescribed to manage high cholesterol levels – as a potential treatment for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB).
These cancers are particularly aggressive and have poor prognosis. The mechanistic preclinical studies revealed that statins can inhibit tumor cell proliferation by targeting the mevalonate pathway, which is crucial for RAS signaling. In addition, the research team identified in their lab experiments a potential mechanism by which tumors can evade treatment, providing insight into how statins might be used more effectively in the future.
Beyond the formal presentations, the relaxed setting of the venue in the midst of the Austrian Alps encouraged informal discussions and debates, leading to exciting exchanges of ideas with colleagues and fellow participants.
The research project "Investigating the potential of statins to treat skin tumors", led by Dr. Roland Zauner, is funded by DEBRA Austria, PMU-Seed and DEBRA UK / DEBRA France.
Dr. Daniela Stoica-Andrei presents the latest research on repurposing of statins for the treatment of aggressive skin cancers at the ÖGDV Science Days (c) DEBRA Austria
