This is a summary of a video uploaded on CNA Insider Nov, 2022. Dr Daryl teamed up with NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine using Artificial Intelligence to create bespoke lymphoma treatments for Donavan, a 24-year-old cancer patient with Stage 4 natural killer (NK) cell lymphoma.
Image credit: Freepik.com
What is Natural Killer (NK) cell Lymphoma?
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in infection-fighting white blood cells known as lymphocytes, a crucial component of the body’s immune system, according to the National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS). Natural Killer (NK) cell lymphoma is a rare subtype of lymphoma characterised by the proliferation of NK cells. This form of lymphoma can be particularly challenging due to its unique cellular characteristics and aggressive nature.
Finding the best drug combinations
To identify the most effective treatments for NK cell lymphoma, researchers at National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS) use advanced methods like the Quadratic Phenotypic Optimization Platform (QPOP). This innovative system analyses a selection of drugs and generates over half a million possible combinations. QPOP then ranks these combinations to determine the most effective drug cocktails for Donavan, optimising treatment regimens for conditions such as NK cell lymphoma.
Patient’s response to the treatment
For patients like Donavan, personalised treatment approaches have shown significant promise. After undergoing several rounds of tailored lymphoma treatment, the bespoke drug combination identified by QPOP helped Donavan achieve remission and manage the disease for 16 months. This personalised approach is crucial for effectively targeting and treating rare and aggressive forms of lymphoma.
Meet Our Haematologist
Dr Daryl Tan Chen Lung
MBBS (Singapore), MRCP (UK), MMED (Int Med), FAMS (Haematology)
Dr Daryl Tan is a haematologist in Singapore with clinical interests in lymphoma, multiple myeloma, leukaemia, and other blood disorders. His care includes diagnosis, treatment planning, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.