Physicians
(2013–present)
Award-winning Research
From a first-in-class kidney cancer drug to the development of new surgical and radiation approaches, a uniquely collaborative environment catalyzes transformative research.
SPORE Award...
Recognized by the National Cancer Institute with a prestigious Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE) Award along with the Harvard Cancer Center.
Innovation Award...
Recognized by D CEO Magazine and Dallas Innovates for its innovation and transformational creativity as a finalist for the inaugural 2020 Healthcare Innovation Award.
Nobel Prize...
Bruce Beutler, M.D.
One of only two programs in the country developing the next generation of immunotherapies with a Nobel Prize-winning immunologist.
Expertise Improving Survival
Improving Survival Rates...
Patient survival rates three times higher for stage 4 kidney cancer and exceeding national benchmarks across all stages.
Leaders in Clinical Excellence...
Recognized with a Leaders in Clinical Excellence Program Award, the Kidney Cancer Program is setting new standards in cancer care.
Belonging
Supportive care and services helping patients navigate the cancer landscape while creating a sense of community.
Advocates...
Dedicating their time and sharing their experiences, our patient and caregiver volunteers set the tone.
Community Outreach...
Promoting educational activities to increase awareness about kidney cancer.
Ralph DeBerardinis Appointed as Director of the Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development & the Center for Human Genetics
Effective September 1st, 2024, Ralph DeBerardinis, M.D., Ph.D., as the new Director of the Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development and the Center for Human Genetics. Visit Dr. DeBerardinis’ UTSW profile and follow his lab on X to read more about his accomplishments.
Congratulations to UT Southwestern Kidney Cancer Researchers on CPRIT Awards!
Five outstanding kidney cancer researchers at UT Southwestern have been recognized by the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) with prestigious awards.
Please join us in congratulating the following awardees and their groundbreaking projects:
- Dr. Kevin Courtney – Clinical Investigator Award
“Identifying and exploiting novel metabolic vulnerabilities in the treatment of kidney cancer” - Dr. Neil Desai – Clinical Investigator Award
“Adapting radiotherapy clinical trials to treatment response and artificial intelligence innovations” - Dr. Ralph DeBerardinis – Core Facility Award
“Children’s Research Institute Metabolomics Core: Advanced Methodologies in Cancer Metabolism” - Dr. Yang Xie – Core Facility Award
“Pediatric Cancer Data Core” - Dr. Ram Mani – High Impact/High Risk Research Award
“Mapping multivalent chromatin interactions to define the 3D genome of Clear cell renal cell carcinoma”
These awards underscore the importance of their innovative research, which is vital in advancing our understanding, prevention, and treatment of kidney cancer. The recognition from CPRIT not only honors their dedication and expertise but also provides crucial support for their continued contributions to the field.
We are excited to see the impact of these research efforts and the advancements they will bring in improving patient outcomes.
DeBerardinis Lab’s Groundbreaking Research on Kidney Cancer Published in Nature Journal
Congratulations to the DeBerardinis Lab on their recent publication in Nature, titled “Mitochondrial Complex I Promotes Kidney Cancer Metastasis.” Their work provides critical insights into how kidney cancer spreads.
The researchers conducted a study using tumors from over 80 kidney cancer patients to uncover how cancer cells utilize nutrients differently to generate energy and fuel their growth. They discovered that clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), a common type of kidney cancer, exhibits unique patterns in nutrient processing.
The study revealed that ccRCC metastases show distinct metabolic behavior compared to primary tumors, indicating that the cancer adapts its metabolism during its spread. In laboratory mice, the researchers found that altering certain metabolic processes in cancer cells could influence their ability to metastasize. This suggests that targeting these metabolic changes might offer new approaches to treating kidney cancer.
This significant work highlights the dynamic nature of cancer metabolism and opens doors to potential new treatments. Kudos to the DeBerardinis Lab for this groundbreaking research that brings us closer to a better understanding of kidney cancer.
Follow the DeBerardinis lab on X at @RJDLab, and read the Nature article here.
Eight Researchers Awarded Funding from SPORE for Innovative Kidney Cancer Research
The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (UTSW) has awarded eight researchers with prestigious SPORE subawards to advance the field of kidney cancer research. This competitive program is part of the larger Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPORE) grant and is designed to support innovative studies through two key initiatives: the Career Enhancement Program (CEP) and the Developmental Research Program (DRP). The CEP aims to bolster junior faculty and seasoned investigators transitioning into kidney cancer research, while the DRP funds high-risk, high-reward projects with significant translational potential. The selected researchers will explore a range of critical areas including cellular signaling pathways, epigenetics, tumor-stroma interactions, and more, with the goal of advancing understanding and treatment of kidney cancer.
Below are the eight awardees along with an overview of their research.
DRP Awardees:
“Our research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern metabolism in cancer and related disorders. This work seeks to uncover how dietary nucleotides fuel kidney cancer growth. Our goal is to identify novel approaches to manipulate nucleotide availability to impede cancer progression.”
“The proposed research explores a novel mechanism by which Hippo signaling regulates ccRCC tumor growth and investigates the potential for targeting the Hippo pathway for ccRCC treatment.”
“The project’s goal is to test the hypothesis that differential enhancer landscapes and 3D genome organization are major determinants of clinical outcomes in PBRM1-deficient and BAP1-deficient ccRCC.”
“In our proposal we will develop a kidney-cancer-specific multiplexed imaging pipeline (based on CODEX) to identify different cell types in patient tissue. This will serve as a valuable resource for the kidney cancer community to explore how the spatial organization of the microenvironment impacts tumor biology.”
“Based on research developed at UTSW, HIF2 inhibitors have been recently approved by the FDA as a new drug class for the treatment of HIF2-driven kidney cancers. Since these HIF2 inhibitors have sub-optimal efficacy in certain clinical contexts, we propose to develop proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) as targeted degraders of HIF2 to address the unmet need for superior HIF2-targeted drugs.”
“This study aims to generate next-generation IL-2-based immunocytokines as a new paradigm for kidney cancer treatment. We will utilize protein engineering to enhance IL-2-mediated antitumor efficacy in the acidic immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment of Renal Cell Carcinoma, and investigate their activity and toxicity in the autologous humanized mouse models of RCC, as well as dissect resistance mechanisms to immunotherapy.”
CEP Awardees:
“The Jewell Lab studies how organisms detect environmental nutrient changes and adjust anabolic and catabolic processes to regulate cell growth, metabolism, and autophagy.”
“Our aim is to use 89Zr-DFO-girentuximab to assess tumor activity and quantify necrosis after systemic therapy. Demonstrating efficacy with this new imaging modality may change the paradigm for cytoreductive surgical management in metastatic renal cell carcinoma.”
2024 Kidney Cancer Educational Event – Recordings and Summary
On April 27th, 2024, the inaugural Kidney Cancer Educational Event took place at the UTSW T. Boone Pickens Medical Education and Conference Center, marking a significant milestone in raising awareness and support for kidney cancer patients and caregivers. Over 270 attendees, including patients, caregivers, medical professionals, and volunteers, came together for a day filled with valuable information, community connections, and heartfelt sharing of stories.
The event featured a vibrant atmosphere with music, food, and an array of 20 informational booths offering resources and support. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with experts and peers alike as they visited booths of interest. Seven keynote experts gave presentations on kidney cancer related topics.
The event provided a platform for attendees to learn, connect, and find solace in shared experiences. The overwhelming turnout and positive feedback underscored the event’s resounding success, highlighting the importance of continued efforts to support those affected by kidney cancer. The graph below displays our post-event-survey results, proving the satisfaction of attendees. In addition, each speaker scored above a 4.8/5 on their presentations, as rated by the attendees.
Below you will find the eight presentations along with a description of each.
Decoding Genes: What They Mean for the Kidney Cancer Journey – Remington Fenter, MS, CGC
Genetic markers, family history, and advancements in personalized medicine can all impact a kidney cancer diagnosis. Genetic testing and screening guide prevention and treatment strategies, making the complex world of genetics more accessible.
Fast Food for Kidney Cancer Cells (Oncometabolism) – Kevin Courtney, MD, PhD
Understanding kidney cancer metabolism can open the door to possible opportunities for detection and treatment.
Hitting the Bullseye: How Radiotherapy Works Against Kidney Cancer – Raquibul Hannan, MD, PhD
A debrief on when, why, and how radiation therapy – a crucial component of the comprehensive treatment approach for kidney cancer- is used, its benefits, and what to expect during treatment.
Unleashing the Immune System: Searching for Kidney Cancer ‘Penicillin’ – Hans Hammers, MD, PhD
Updates on the latest immunotherapeutic drugs that extend life for many patients.
The Surgical Journey: Preparing for and Recovering from Kidney Cancer Surgery – Vitaly Margulis, MD
This presentation will describe the surgical journey, from diagnosis to post-operative care; how decisions are made to choose the right approach; and advancements in technology that are making surgery safer and more effective.
Fixing the Faulty Oxygen Thermostat: The Latest FDA-Approved Drug for Kidney Cancer – James Brugarolas, MD, PhD
Focusing on the latest FDA-approved therapy, which targets the oxygen sensor in kidney cancer cells, this presentation will provide a behind-the-scenes look at “bench to bedside” research, from initial laboratory discovery at UT Southwestern to regulatory approval.
The Clinic’s Supermom: Understanding Your Oncology Nurse’s Role in Kidney Cancer Care & Helping Hands in the Fight Against Kidney Cancer
Oncology nurses provide comprehensive care acting as a bridge between patients and their care team, which can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
The Kidney Cancer Program has a long history of volunteers and patient advocates in the clinic- roles that can make a significant impact during a kidney cancer diagnosis. Volunteering opportunities within the clinic not only offer community, but a sense of personal growth and fulfillment.
Updated Survival Statistics for Kidney Cancer Patients at UTSW
Survival statistics for kidney cancer patients at UTSW determined by SEER database.
For a simplified view of these statistics, visit our Patient Resources page.
Groundbreaking phase 1 trial- siRNA effectively targets HIF-2a in RCC, proving a potential route for new therapeutics
A phase 1 clinical trial led by UT Southwestern Medical Center has demonstrated the efficacy of ARO-HIF2, a short interfering RNA (siRNA) drug, in disrupting HIF2α, a key driver of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Published in Clinical Cancer Research, the study highlights the potential of siRNA technology for targeted cancer therapy. Developed by Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, ARO-HIF2 selectively targets HIF2α mRNA, blocking protein production and offering a new avenue for treating ccRCC. The drug’s unique guidance system delivers it to tumor cells via interaction with integrin αvβ3, enhancing uptake and therapeutic potential. The trial enrolled 26 patients with advanced ccRCC, showing promising results with tumor growth halted in 40% of participants and partial responses observed in two patients. Detailed analyses confirmed HIF2α depletion by ARO-HIF2 and effective blockade of tumor-produced erythropoietin. Parallel experiments in mice supported the drug’s efficacy, building on preclinical studies funded by the National Cancer Institute. However, challenges remain, including neurotoxicity observed in some patients, highlighting the need for further research to refine safety profiles. Lead author James Brugarolas, M.D., Ph.D., emphasizes the potential of siRNA technology in oncology, while co-author Nizar M. Tannir, M.D., underscores the need for continued research in cancer therapy.
Click Here for the UTSW Press Release on Phase 1 trial results.
Celebrating Excellence in Research: Haitao Xu, M.D. Named 2024 Seldin Scholar
Huge congratulations to Haitao Xu, M.D., for being named the 2024 Seldin Scholar at the ninth annual Donald W. Seldin Research Symposium!
The symposium showcased an array of poster and speaker presentations, spanning a diverse array of topics, from fundamental biology to quality improvement initiatives while advancing our collective understanding of complex medical challenges. Haitao’s presentation on “PBRM1 as a Predictive Therapeutic Biomarker for Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma to the Pancreas” captivated everyone in attendance, granting him victory by popular vote from attendees.
As we applaud Dr. Haitao Xu’s remarkable achievement as the 2024 Seldin Scholar, we also extend our appreciation to all those who contributed to the success of the symposium. Their collective efforts underscore the transformative power of collaboration and the enduring impact of scientific inquiry in shaping the future of medicine.
Cheers to Haitao Xu and the entire research community for pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation!
For more information on the Donald W. Seldin Research Symposium, click here.
Raquibul Hannan, M.D., Ph.D. and his investigators are awarded about $2 million in research funding
The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) has recently awarded the Simmons Cancer Center with about $19 million cancer research funding. Of these funds, Raquibul Hannan, M.D., Ph.D and his Kidney Cancer Program investigation team were awarded about $2 million. Dr. Hannan serves as a professor of Radiation Oncology and Immunology and Urology, as well as the Chief of Genitourinary Radiation Oncology Service. These funds will go toward a clinical trial aimed at investigating the impact of stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy on metastatic kidney cancer. This clinical trial is also supported by the Kidney Cancer SPORE grant.
See UTSW’s article for more information on the award.
KCP researchers develop novel model for pediatric kidney cancer
In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, researchers at the UT Southwestern Kidney Cancer Program have unveiled a significant breakthrough in understanding and potentially treating translocation renal cell carcinoma (tRCC), an uncommon yet devastating form of kidney cancer that disproportionately impacts pediatric patients.
Translocation renal cell carcinoma, which accounts for only 5% of all renal cell carcinoma cases, assumes a more grave presence in the realm of pediatric oncology, constituting roughly one-fifth of all cases in this demographic. A rare disease in an underserved population, translocation renal cell carcinoma has long been associated with a bleak prognosis due to a lack of targeted treatment options, and it is often considered incurable in its advanced stages. Many different genes have been linked to the development of tRCC, presenting a formidable challenge in the quest for effective therapies. Furthermore, the scarcity of reliable mouse models for translocation renal cell carcinoma has hindered understanding of its biological underpinnings, leaving researchers seeking insight into the disease.
The paper, authored by Dr. Gopinath Prakasam, a postdoctoral fellow at the Brugarolas Lab within the Kidney Cancer Program, has unveiled a crucial breakthrough in understanding tRCC tumorigenesis. Dr. Prakasam’s research has revealed that genetic mutations, most associated with translocation renal cell carcinoma and driven by the enzyme Sglt2-Cre, lead to the development of highly aggressive tRCC tumors. This discovery not only provides essential insights into the potential pathways of tumor development but also lays a foundation for the development of mouse models for tRCC research.
“This finding is a significant step forward in our quest to understand and combat translocation renal cell carcinoma,” said James Brugarolas, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Kidney Cancer Program. “With this breakthrough, we have not only illuminated the elusive pathways of disease development but have also created a promising platform for future research and therapeutic advancements.”
Dr. Prakasam’s research has been supported by Joey’s Wings Foundation, as well as their partners, the Plano Pacers and Dallas DASH. The commitment to pioneering research by UT Southwestern and the support of Joey’s Wings and their partners continues to offer hope for patients affected by this devastating form of kidney cancer. As researchers delve deeper into the genetic intricacies of tRCC and develop further models to understand the disease, future studies may hold the promise of innovative treatments and renewed optimism for those facing this rare and challenging diagnosis.
Two KCP researchers receive more than $3 million in CPRIT funding
Two UTSW principal investigators received $3 million in research funding from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas to study kidney cancer development and treatment.
Raquibul Hannan, M.D., Ph.D., Kidney Cancer Program Co-Leader of Radiation Oncology, received nearly $2 million for his proposal, Maximizing Anti-tumor Immunity through Simultaneous Activation of the Innate and Adaptive Immune System. Dr. Hannan’s proposal extends studies proposed in Project 3 of the SPORE which combines a novel drug, IMSA101, developed by Zhijian Chen, Ph.D. at UTSW, to activate the innate immune system together with radiation therapy and an immune checkpoint inhibitor in a phase 2 clinical trial. Dr. Hannan’s research seeks to explore the impact of combined activation of the innate and adaptive immune system in patients with suboptimal response to ICI treatment.
Qing Zhang, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Pathology, received over $1 million to study JMJD6-DGAT1 Signaling Axis Regulates Lipid Droplets and Tumorigenesis in ccRCC. Dr. Zhang’s research investigates the role of the JMJD6-DGAT1 pathway and lipid metabolism in ccRCC.
Additionally, UTSW researchers received over $15 million in other CPRIT awards across the board for cancer research.
KCP Patient Advocacy and Volunteer Program relaunches after COVID-19 pandemic
The Kidney Cancer Program Patient Advocacy and Volunteer Program relaunched at an inaugural meeting in the Simmons Cancer Center. Five new volunteers began serving within the Cancer Center Genitourinary Clinic after being introduced to providers and staff within the Kidney Cancer Program.
Founded in 2014 by Tony Towler and Merlinda Chelette, the Kidney Cancer Patient Advocacy Program seeks to initiate contact with newly diagnosed patients and improve their experiences while traversing a challenging diagnosis. The duo led fundraising and patient involvement initiatives within the Kidney Cancer Program, as well as offering important feedback to the program on how to improve services for patients.
Temporarily paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, the return of the Patient Advocacy and Volunteer Program aims to bring back the spirit of camaraderie and hope to those affected by kidney cancer.
Kidney Cancer Program 10th Anniversary Patient Event
The Kidney Cancer Program (KCP) recently commemorated a significant milestone, celebrating a decade of achievements in patient care and innovative research with an event for patients and community members. The event, which drew over 200 attendees, highlighted the program’s remarkable journey over the past ten years.
The event served as a platform for sharing insights gained from a decade of collaborative care and translational research. Patient and advocate testimonials, coupled with informative discussions led by esteemed faculty members, delved into a spectrum of topics surrounding kidney cancer treatment modalities and intricacies.
Dr. James Brugarolas, Director of the Kidney Cancer Program, outlined the remarkable advancements in kidney cancer research since the program’s inception with a comprehensive overview of the strides made in understanding and treating this disease.
A panel discussion, featuring both a patient and the faculty who collaborated to treat him, provided a deep dive into the complexities of managing challenging cases, offering diverse perspectives and insights crucial in the battle against kidney cancer. Members of the community could also attend breakout sessions to learn more about specific topics in kidney cancer care and research, including the genetic component of kidney cancer, radiology tools, multiple treatment methods, and caring for the caregiver.
The highlight of the event was the keynote address by Dr. Vitaly Margulis, which included remarkable footage of robotic surgery, showcasing cutting-edge technological advancements in the field.
Additionally, the event received a generous boost with the presentation of a check for a $50,000 donation from local representatives of Joey’s Wings Foundation. The contribution is earmarked for pediatric kidney cancer research, emphasizing the collective commitment to advancing treatments for younger patients.
Dr. Brugarolas expressed gratitude and emphasized the importance of such events in driving progress.
“This event stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of our team, our collaborators, and the community in the fight against kidney cancer,” he said. “The last decade has been transformative, and events like these reaffirm our commitment to continued innovation and progress.”
The Kidney Cancer Program at UT Southwestern Medical Center is one of only two NCI-designated Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPORE) in kidney cancer. Established in 2013, the program has become one of the largest kidney cancer efforts worldwide.
Dr. Jue Wang joins the KCP as co-Leader of Education
The Kidney Cancer Program is excited to announce the appointment of Jue Wang, M.D., as the new Co-Leader of Education. Dr. Wang succeeds Dr. Scott Schwartzman, who served in this role until recently.
With an unwavering commitment to education, Dr. Wang brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Kidney Cancer Program (KCP). He joins the faculty of UT Southwestern and KCP as a professor of internal medicine in the division of hematology/oncology. Dr. Wang’s background spans from fundamental to clinical research and he has served as principal investigator of multiple clinical trials.
After earning his medical degree at Suzhou Medical College in China, Dr. Wang completed advanced cancer research training at both the Institute of Cancer Research of the Royal Marsden Hospital in England and the Sealy Center for Molecular Hematology and Oncology at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, where he also completed a residency in internal medicine, and fellowships in both hyperbaric medicine and medical oncology. He is the recipient of multiple accolades including a Faculty Service Award from the University of Arizona College of Medicine, a Patient’s Choice Award from the Cancer Institute at St. Joseph’s Hospital (Arizona), and a Silver Certificate of Excellence for clinical research contributions from the National Cancer Institute.
As co-Leader of Education, Dr. Wang will play a pivotal role in the KCP by implementing innovative curriculum strategies, mentoring, and supporting aspiring medical professionals, and enhancing our educational offerings.
With a deep understanding of the evolving healthcare landscape, Dr. Wang aims to enhance medical education, ensuring KCP trainees are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and compassion necessary to excel in their careers and make a positive impact on society. He is committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment that embraces diversity and encourages interdisciplinary collaboration.
“We are delighted about Dr. Wang’s appointment as Co-Leader for Education at the KCP,” said James Brugarolas, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Kidney Cancer Program. “The breadth of experience and commitment he offers to our trainees make him a great addition to the KCP leadership. I’m also grateful to Dr. Scott Schwartzman for serving in this role, and for the assistance he has provided to many trainees seeking to enhance their research skills despite his many obligations.”
Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Dr. Wang and a sincere thank you to Dr. Schwartzman.
The Kidney Cancer Program at UT Southwestern Medical Center is one of only two NCI-designated Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPORE) in kidney cancer. Established in 2013, the program has become one of the largest kidney cancer efforts worldwide.
Eleven UTSW investigators receive millions in DoD awards for kidney cancer research
Eleven UT Southwestern Kidney Cancer Program investigators received nine awards from the U.S. Department of Defense Kidney Cancer Research Program (KCRP) in 2023, setting a record for the most proposals recommended for funding of any institution. A third of all proposals recommended for funding were from the KCP.
Kiyoshi Ariizumi, Ph.D., professor of dermatology and immunology, received an Idea Development Award. Dr. Ariizumi’s proposal, entitled “Tumor Extravasation in Zebrafish as a Prognostic Marker and a Therapeutic Target for Metastasis of Kidney Cancer,” intends to determine if tumor extravasation in zebrafish models can be used as a biomarker for risk of metastasis in kidney cancer.
Kenneth Chen, M.D., assistant professor of pediatrics, received an Idea Development Award to investigate pediatric Wilms tumors. Dr. Chen’s project, “DROSHA regulates mesenchymal expression and chemosensitivity in Wilms tumors,” will evaluate how DROSHA regulates kidney formation as well as its role in Wilms tumors and chemotherapy response.
Ian Corbin, Ph.D., associate professor at the Advanced Imaging Research Center, received an Idea Development Award for his proposal “Leveraging SCARB1 Overexpression for the Treatment of ccRCC with Low-Density Lipoprotein Nanocarriers,” to investigate the effectiveness of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) drug delivery in animal models of kidney cancer.
Lindsay Cowell, Ph.D., associate professor at the Peter O’Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, and Payal Kapur, M.D., professor of pathology and urology, received a Translational Research Partnership Award for their proposal “Leveraging Biophysicochemical Motifs in T Cell Receptor Antigen Binding Regions and Antigen Co-occurrence to Predict Response to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors.” This project aims to study T cells in ccRCC and determine whether they can predict the response to immune checkpoint inhibitors, one of the most common treatments for kidney cancer.
Weibo Luo, Ph.D., associate professor of pathology and pharmacology, received an Idea Development Award. “Characterization of Epigenetic and Metabolic Vulnerability in VHL-deficient ccRCC and its Therapeutic Potential,” aims to evaluate the potential of a synthetic epigenetic drug to treat clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC).
Srinivas Malladi, Ph.D., assistant professor of pathology, received an Idea Development Award. “Delineate Tumor Immune Contexture that Shapes Metastatic Progression and Response to Immunotherapy” seeks to investigate the contribution of the tumor microenvironment in immunotherapeutic response in kidney cancer.
Xiankai Sun, Ph.D., Director of the Cyclotron & Radiochemistry program, and James Brugarolas, M.D., Ph.D, Director of the Kidney Cancer Program, received a Translational Research Partnership Award to investigate PET imaging of HIF-2α in renal cancer. Drs. Sun and Brugarolas plan to leverage their understanding of HIF-2α to develop a second-generation radiotracer to visualize its expression in ccRCC patients.
Andrew Wang, M.D., professor of radiation oncology received an Idea Development Reward for his proposal “Multifunctional Immunotherapy Particle to Enable Innate Immunotherapy for Kidney Cancer,” which will investigate the use of multifunctional immunotherapy particles (MINPs) to activate natural killer cells that inhibit ccRCC tumors and enhance existing immunotherapy protocols.
Chen Yao, Ph.D., assistant professor of immunology, received the Academy of Kidney Cancer Investigators – Early Career Scholar Award to investigate stem cell-like T cells as a target for immunotherapy in kidney cancer. Mentored by Drs. Celeste Simon (University of Pennsylvania) and Brugarolas, Dr. Yao’s proposal aims to explore the role of stem-like immune cells against kidney cancer.
The Kidney Cancer Program within the Simmons Cancer Center at UT Southwestern Medical Center is one of only two NCI-designated Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPORE) in kidney cancer. Established in 2013, the program has become one of the largest kidney cancer efforts worldwide.
