February 2025

NETRF has announced our 2025 Request for Research Grant Applications. We're seeking transformative research proposals in basic, translational, and clinical research to deepen our understanding of neuroendocrine cancer, improve detection, and develop or improve treatments. Grants are available for scientists worldwide, with NETRF's Accelerator, Investigator, Pilot, and Mentored Research Awards.These awards provide one to four years of funding and range from $90,000 to $800,000. The Mentored Research Awards are designed specifically for postdocs and clinical fellows.

As the largest global funder of neuroendocrine cancer research, NETRF is the lifeline for dedicated scientists working tirelessly to unravel the complexities of this uncommon and challenging disease. NETRF is often the sole source of funding for early-career scientists with groundbreaking ideas. We do not receive any government money; we rely on the generosity of our community and donors to advance vital neuroendocrine research. 

For details on how to apply, including program guidelines and the funding schedule, visit Apply for NETRF Research Funding. To start your application, visit ProposalCentral.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted priority review to Merck’s application for WELIREG® (belzutifan) as a treatment for adult and pediatric patients (12 years and older) living with advanced pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (Pheo/Para). The FDA aims to decide about belzutifan by May 26, 2025. Read more here.

In 2021, NETRF funded Paul Schaffer, PhD, of the University of British Columbia, for a pilot project entitled “Preclinical Toxicity and Therapy Study of 225Ac-crown-TATE.” The study's promising outcomes were recently published in the journal Nuclear Medicine and Biology. These findings underscore the importance of next-generation alpha-emitting PRRT agents that could improve treatment and patient outcomes. Read more here.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted orphan drug designation to ELC-100, an oncolytic virus therapy that targets and kills pancreatic neuroendocrine cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unaffected. Elicera Therapeutics AB, a Swedish clinical-stage cell and gene therapy company, announced the FDA’s designation on Jan. 13.

Elicera has been conducting a Phase I/II clinical trial to determine ELC-100’s safety and its maximum tolerated dose.The final participant for the trial's first phase was recruited in late 2024 and results of the trial are expected by mid-2025.The progress to date highlights the company’s commitment to developing innovative therapies for diverse neuroendocrine tumor patient groups.

Orphan drug designation is granted by the FDA to therapies addressing diseases affecting fewer than 200,000 people in the U.S. It provides benefits such as tax credits for clinical trials, waived marketing application fees, and seven years of market exclusivity following approval.

Jamal El-Mosleh, CEO of Elicera Therapeutics, expressed his enthusiasm for the FDA's decision, noting that it “is a significant milestone in our efforts to develop a new form of treatment for patients with neuroendocrine tumors.”

For more details, visit elicera.com.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a hot topic, making its way into everyday conversations and industries worldwide. While AI technologies have been around for years, recent advancements are accelerating their impact—especially in healthcare. From improving cancer research to enhancing diagnosis and treatment, AI is reshaping the future of medicine. In this new episode of NETRF’s NETWise podcast, we dive into how AI is driving progress in neuroendocrine cancer research and explore its potential applications in the clinic. Could AI revolutionize the way neuroendocrine neoplasms are diagnosed and managed? Listen here as we uncover the possibilities.

The Spoon Theory is a powerful metaphor that illustrates the limited energy reserves of those living with chronic illnesses. Applying this concept to neuroendocrine cancer can help explain the daily energy challenges individuals face. Symptoms such as fatigue, pain, digestive issues, and hormonal imbalances require careful energy management to navigate daily life. In this month’s Thrivership Series, we explore this topic further and learn strategies for balancing energy with neuroendocrine cancer. 

More than 1000 people responded to our 2025 survey to let us know what you need to KNOW YOUR NETs! We are grateful that so many took the time to take the survey.
Your voice matters! Your feedback will help us develop the agenda for the 2025 KNOW YOUR NETs Virtual Patient Conference. Stay tuned for more details soon. And mark your calendar for Saturday, July 26!

As spring approaches, what better time to plan an event that raises awareness and funds for neuroendocrine cancer research? Whether online or in person, community events are a powerful way to mobilize support, spread awareness, and make a lasting impact. If you’re interested in organizing an event, we’re here to help! Check out our Fundraising Events page for ideas, tips, and guidelines.

Additionally, join us for a Zoom webinar on Tuesday, March 18, at 1 p.m. ET. For an invitation link, please contact Steve Perna at steve.perna@netrf.org.

Thank you for your continued support!

Jan Borromeo generously donated his car to support NETRF, a gesture that holds deep personal meaning. "Thank you for allowing me to contribute to NETRF. Your educational resources helped me understand my dad's journey," Jan said. "The car that my dad helped me maintain throughout college and in my early career, when I had nothing in my pocket, is being donated in his memory." 

Ready to make a difference and clear out your driveway? Donate your car to NETRF through our partnership with CarEasy, and watch your vehicle help drive forward crucial research and support for those affected by neuroendocrine cancer. Whether your car's still cruising or it's just sitting there, it can help fuel a brighter future.

Visit the link to learn more and donate today!

Find a local event near you and join us in supporting groundbreaking research that leads to better treatments and hope for patients and families.Together, we’re making a difference!

March 1 – Toledo, OH
The CureNET Project's 3rd Winter Dinner

September 20 – Fair Oaks, CA
"A Night for Sheryl"

NETRF sends its sincere thanks to Stephen Blackwood and Mark Lewis, MD, the newest members of our Emeritus Board. After years of serving on our Board of Directors, they have assumed this new role to continue to support NETRF’s mission.

Stephen Blackwood has served on the Board since the early days of NETRF, then known as Caring for Carcinoid Foundation. He has served on various committees during his tenure. Dr. Lewis joined the Board in 2019, supporting many NETRF patient education activities. Dr. Lewis and Mr. Blackwood have now been elected to the Emeritus Board, where we look forward to their future guidance and participation.

NET Research Foundation
31 St. James Avenue
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Boston, MA 02116
(617) 946-1780 info@netrf.org

The mission of the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation is to fund research to discover cures and more effective treatments for neuroendocrine cancer. NETRF is the largest global funder of neuroendocrine research and a preeminent resource for expert patient education and support.



NETRF is a 501(c)(3) organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.