MRA Meet Up: Compassionate Use in Melanoma & the Emerging RP1 Therapy

On Monday, April 6, MRA hosted an installment of our patient-focused MRA Meet Up webinars called “Compassionate Use in Melanoma & the Emerging RP1 Therapy.” The session featured Dr. Eric Whitman, System Medical Director of Oncology at Atlantic Health System Cancer Care, in conversation with MRA’s Director of Communications and Engagement, Dana Deighton. The discussion explored how compassionate use - also known as expanded access - can provide a pathway for patients to access investigational therapies when no approved options remain.

Dr. Whitman also provided an overview of RP1, an engineered oncolytic virus designed to selectively infect and destroy cancer cells while activating the immune system. He highlighted promising clinical trial data and discussed the upcoming PDUFA date set by the FDA of April 10, 2026, which will determine whether or not RP1 receives approval.

The discussion focused on how compassionate use works in practice and how RP1 may fit into this pathway, including key considerations such as:

• The step-by-step process of compassionate use, from physician request to FDA authorization and IRB oversight
• Patient eligibility, particularly for those who have exhausted approved treatment options
• The importance of experienced care teams and having treatment plans
• Financial and logistical considerations, including travel and supportive care needs

During an interactive Q&A, participants asked thoughtful questions about eligibility, rare melanoma subtypes, and how compassionate use may impact future treatment options.

This webinar offered a practical and empowering overview of compassionate use and emerging therapies like RP1, helping patients and caregivers better understand their options and how to navigate discussions with their care teams.

Watch the full recording:

See our library of MRA Meet-Up Webinars and make sure you are signed up for our E-Newsletter for future webinar announcements!