Interview with the World Class Authorities Frontiers of Cancer Research: An exclusive interview with Professor Luis Diaz

Abstract

This manuscript provides an in-depth interview with Prof. Luis Diaz, Head of Oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Editor-in-Chief of Cancer Discovery. A globally recognized leader in oncology, Prof. Diaz discusses the transformative impact of precision oncology, particularly the role of mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR) and microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) biomarkers in immunotherapy. He highlights the groundbreaking success of PD-1 blockade therapies, such as dostarlimab, which have achieved unprecedented complete response rates in dMMR/MSI-H rectal cancer, emphasizing its tumor-agnostic potential. Prof. Diaz reflects on the evolution of cancer diagnostics, notably circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) for minimal residual disease (MRD) detection, and its implications for treatment personalization and early detection. He also addresses the challenges and prospects of cancer prevention, advocating for innovative approaches such as immunoprevention and vaccines targeting tumor-specific pathways, like the HPV vaccine for cervical cancer. The interview underscores the importance of fundamental research in advancing cancer care and the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration to address unresolved questions in tumor biology. By sharing his vision and pioneering achievements, Prof. Diaz inspires the next generation of clinicians and researchers to pursue bold innovations, ultimately aiming to enhance patient outcomes and revolutionize the future of oncology. This dialogue serves as a significant resource for understanding current trends and future directions in cancer research and treatment.