Research at Ohio State could lead to less recurrence by shutting down genes that can help cancers grow and change. OSUCCC – James researchers are conducting multiple studies of FGFR (fibroblast growth factor receptor) genes, which are sometimes found in cancers that have mutated. In one of these trials, researchers developed tests — called spark fuses — that identify FGFR genes, which can lead to therapies targeted to individual patients. “The studies are using therapies to treat the cancer, shrink it and help our patients live longer, and in some instances, patients are getting therapies to prevent the cancer from coming back,” says Sameek Roychowdhury, MD, PhD.