Melanoma and skin cancers
Education on Melanoma and skin cancers and Alpha-1 Antitrypsin research from the Mark Egly Foundation, with patent claims clearly labeled as hypothesis.
Research hypothesis, not medical advice
The connections described on this page come from Mark Egly's patent filing and ongoing research. They are not established medical facts. Always work with your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Research hypothesis. The connection between Melanoma and skin cancers and Alpha-1 Antitrypsin is described in Mark Egly's 2020 patent filing. This is not established medical fact and is not medical advice. Always talk with your doctor about your own health.
What is Melanoma and skin cancers?
Melanoma and skin cancers is a health condition discussed in Mark Egly's research on Alpha-1 Antitrypsin. Cancer involves abnormal cell growth. The patent discusses how neutrophil elastase and low circulating AAT may influence tumor development and spread.
What Mark Egly's patent discusses
Melanoma and other skin cancers may benefit from the administration of AAT, including treatment by local or topical application post-surgery. Active AAT reduces neutrophils and also helps to maintain and protect any Thrombospondin1 ("tsp1" or "thbs1") that the body's natural defense system is sending to an area of the skin to fight off cancer.
How this may relate to Alpha-1
Mark Egly's patent proposes that when the body has too little working Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, or when neutrophils release too much neutrophil elastase, inflammation and tissue damage may worsen. For Melanoma and skin cancers, the patent suggests that testing for AATD or low circulating AAT could help guide care. This is a research hypothesis, not a proven treatment path for everyone with this condition.
What you can do
If you or a family member lives with Melanoma and skin cancers, consider learning about Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency and discussing AAT testing with your healthcare team. The Mark Egly Foundation offers education and community support: