Melanoma Research Alliance Statement on FDA Approval of Tebentafusp, the First Drug for Treating Metastatic Uveal Melanoma

The Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA) released the following statements from MRA Chief Science Officer Marc Hurlbert, PhD and MRA President & CEO Michael Kaplan on the Food & Drug Administration approval of tebentafusp, the first drug for treating metastatic uveal melanoma:

MRA Chief Science Officer Marc Hurlbert, PhD: "This approval represents a new day for patients and families affected by uveal melanoma. Previously, patients facing metastatic uveal melanoma ? among other rare melanoma subtypes ? had few effective treatment options. Today's action renews hope that patients facing these rare forms of melanoma aren't being left behind."

MRA President & CEO Michael Kaplan: "The FDA's approval of tebentafusp is a critical step in our ongoing fight against melanoma. However, we must continue to invest in rare melanoma research if we are to achieve MRA's mission of ending suffering and death due to melanoma."

About Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA)

The Melanoma Research Alliance exists to accelerate treatment options and find a cure for melanoma. As the largest nonprofit funder of melanoma research, it has dedicated over $131 million and leveraged an additional $415 million in collaborative and follow-on funding towards its mission. Through its support, MRA has championed revolutions in immunotherapy, targeted therapies, novel combinations and diagnostics. Due to the ongoing support of its founders, 100 percent of donations to MRA go directly to its melanoma research program. MRA's ability to fund wide-ranging research in melanoma is amplified by unique collaborations and partnerships with individuals, private foundations, and corporations. Visit http://www.CureMelanoma.org for more information.