Jesse Brown

Can you summarise your latest research?

Over 70% of patients who are receiving combination immunotherapy experience some degree of severe immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Colitis and diarrhoea are the most common irAEs driven by immunotherapy, representing over 20% of all grade 3 and 4 toxicities. The occurrence of irAEs predominately results in treatment being discontinued and the prescription of systemic steroids, namely prednisolone. Although prednisolone is commonly used, its direct effect on immunotherapy remains undecided, with literature indicating that factors such as timing and dosage are critical in patient outcomes.

To address this issue, we have developed a representative mouse model that mimics the clinical treatment path for a patient with irAEs, taking into consideration dosage, treatment regime and timing. Through this model, we have identified that prednisolone seemingly promotes a unique pattern of tumour growth, denoted as delayed progression, which shows initial response to immunotherapy before tumour outgrowth later during treatment (in the presence of prednisolone). By further investigating prednisolone’s effect, we determined that early steroid treatment, following immunotherapy, dampens the proliferation of a wide range of immune cells within blood, tumours and lymph nodes. Similarly, we have started investigating alternative therapies, anti-TNFa and anti-IL6, to determine if alternative immune-modulatory agents promote similar patterns of growth as prednisolone (delayed progression) or if they may be better alternatives for patients experiencing irAEs.

How did you get into melanoma research?

Following my honours at the University of Sydney in 2021, I was fortunate enough to contact Professor Helen Rizos while looking for supervisors to complete a Master of Research under. The diversity of Melanoma research piqued my interest. I was excited to expand my knowledge by exploring new techniques in a mechanistic/translational setting. Through the supervision of Professor Helen Rizos, I readily became a part of the Precision Cancer Therapy (PCT) Team at Macquarie University, and am now currently doing my PhD.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

My career highlight so far is receiving the 2024 David Hall Award for academic excellence in my Master of Research thesis. This milestone is a major motivator I look back on often, as a reminder that hard work does pay off and that through perseverance you can achieve great things.

What is your favourite part of your work?

Being part of Melanoma Institute Australia (MIA) and participating/presenting at the Melanoma translational research group (MTRG) meetings alongside the MIA retreats. These events open your eyes to the depth of research underway across both clinical and research landscapes, while also highlighting the significance of cross-disciplinary relationships. Learning from like-minded people all striving to achieve a common goal is special.

Do you have any future career goals?

Throughout my academic career, although very early, I have been fortunate enough to be around some amazing mentors who have provided me with guidance regarding the various opportunities within the medical field. It’s hard to know exactly what the future will hold, but I know for certain that I will be in and around the medical field whether that be in the lab or patient-facing. Being a part of this field is something I’m passionate about and want to try and leave an impact on.

Describe yourself in one word:

Enthusiastic.

Do you have a hidden talent?

Outside the lab, I create 3D graphic designs and illustrations for companies/brands.

What is your favourite quote?

‘I shall either find a way or make one.’

What is your favourite movie?

Avatar (2009) – James Cameron. Ahead of its time!

What is a book you’ve enjoyed recently?

The Name of the Wind (2007) – Patrick Rothfuss.

What is your all-time favourite song?

Carry Your Throne – Jon Bellion.