Watch: 2022 Translational Medicine Awardees Explain Their Research

Earlier this year, the PhRMA Foundation sponsored Translational Science 2023, the annual meeting of the Association for Clinical and Translational Science. As part of that event, the Foundation’s 2022 Translational Medicine award recipients recorded brief video presentations showcasing their research for the audience. Watch the videos below to learn more about these awardees and their research.

Brian Andersen, MD, PhD, Brigham and Women’s Hospital

Project: Understanding Mechanisms of Communication Between Cancer and Healthy Brain Cells

Glioblastoma is the most common and lethal type of brain cancer. Dr. Andersen seeks to understand what hinders the immune system’s fight against this deadly cancer through advanced molecular analysis.

Andy G. S. Daniel, PhD, University of California, San Francisco

Project: Harnessing Tumor-Neuron Interactions to Identify Treatment Targets

Gliomas are cancerous brain tumors with dismal prognoses. Prior studies show glioma cells communicate with neurons to promote cancer spread. Dr. Daniel aims to better understand these interactions and identify novel treatment targets.

Ritu Raman, PhD Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Project: Building New 3D Models to Study Neuromuscular Disease

Biomedical advances have enabled development of living mimics of the body’s tissues by patterning cells into 3D models. Dr. Raman is creating neuromuscular system models and testing strategies to regenerate tissue after nerve injuries.

Fan Zhang, PhD, University of Colorado

Project: Using Machine Learning to Develop Better Detection and Treatment Methods for Rheumatoid Arthritis-Associated Lung Disease

Interstitial lung disease is difficult to diagnose before the condition reaches advanced stages. Dr. Zhang seeks to identify molecular phenotypes and biomarkers that could serve as diagnostic markers and treatment targets.

At the Translational Science meeting, the PhRMA Foundation also sponsored the Scholars Career Pathways Reception for young researchers to network with professionals in alternative career paths. In addition, the Foundation provided prizes for the three winners of the Three-Minute Thesis competition.