The University of Missouri Ellis Fischel Cancer Center recently hosted its annual Cancer Research Day, an event that showcases groundbreaking research and academic excellence in oncology. This year’s event had impressive turnout with more than 150 attendees from across the state and 54 abstracts submitted for evaluation, highlighting the depth of cancer research being conducted at MU.
“We are proud to support such amazing students in cancer research education and training,” said Gerhard Hilderbrandt, MD, executive director of Ellis Fischel Cancer Center. “Their innovative contributions not only advance our understanding of cancer, but also underscore the importance of academic and clinical collaboration in cancer research."
Peggy Birikorang and Nagabhishek Sirpu Natesh, PhD, each received the Director's Research Award for their outstanding abstracts. Birikorang, a doctoral candidate in biochemistry was honored for her work on advancements in imaging technologies for brain cancer. Natesh's research provides new insights into the molecular pathways that could potentially halt pancreatic cancer metastasis.
In addition to the director's awards, selected abstracts were presented orally and demonstrated a range of innovative approaches to cancer research. Topics included advancements in Bruton Tyrosine Kinase inhibitors, the relationship between acute myeloid leukemia and cardiovascular disease, and novel therapeutic approaches in cancer immunotherapy.
Keynote speakers included Philip Castle, PhD, from the National Cancer Institute and Dan Hayes, MD, from the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center. Both led impactful discussions on cancer prevention and research dissemination.
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