Four Penn Cancer Researchers Inducted as Fellows of the AACR Academy

PHILADELPHIA – In an extraordinary recognition of their pioneering contributions to the field of oncology, a group of distinguished researchers has been elected to join the distinguished ranks of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Academy in its 2025 class. The four notable individuals include Garrett M. Brodeur, MD, Susan Domchek, MD, Stephan Grupp, MD, PhD, and Robert Vonderheide, MD, DPhil. Their work at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine and the esteemed Abramson Cancer Center showcases their commitment to advancing the science of cancer and improving patient outcomes through rigorous research and innovative treatments.

The AACR Academy, a prestigious body of cancer researchers and clinicians, confers fellowship honors upon scientists whose unwavering dedication and groundbreaking advancements have significantly impacted the fight against cancer. These elected fellows represent a vital collective of expert minds dedicated to propelling the mission of the AACR: to eradicate cancer through extensive research, education, collaboration, and advocacy. Their efforts not only stand to inspire future generations of cancer researchers but also underscore the imperative need for incessant innovation within the realm of cancer treatment and prevention.

Dr. Garrett M. Brodeur, a luminary in pediatric oncology, directs the Cancer Predisposition Program at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). His significant contributions to neuroblastoma research are unparalleled, marked by his discovery of MYCN amplification as a pivotal marker for identifying high-risk patients. Brodeur has also been at the forefront of international collaborations, helping establish the first International Neuroblastoma Staging System. His pioneering work in developing TRK inhibitors for pediatric solid tumors has led to advancements in treatment options, promising better outcomes for young patients battling crucial conditions. Furthermore, Brodeur has innovated a multivalent nanomedicine, PEEL-24, which demonstrates both enhanced efficacy and reduced toxicity compared to standard treatment options.

In the realm of hereditary cancer, Dr. Susan M. Domchek emerges as a leading figure, with her role as the Basser Professor in Oncology amplifying her impact on the field. As the executive director of the Basser Center for BRCA at Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center, she has been instrumental in bridging the gap between genetic testing and clinical applications. Her research has significantly altered risk assessment and preventative strategies for individuals carrying BRCA1/2 mutations. Domchek’s groundbreaking work in society-changing therapies, particularly PARP inhibitors, marks a transformative chapter in clinical care, promising to improve survival rates and quality of life for mutation carriers through targeted therapeutic strategies.

Another trailblazer is Dr. Stephan A. Grupp, recognized for his substantial contributions to the evolution of CAR T cell therapy in pediatric populations. Holding a professorship in Pediatrics and directing the Cellular Therapy and Transplant Section at CHOP, Grupp’s collaborative efforts have revolutionized the way we approach cancer treatment. His pivotal role in the development of CAR T cell therapy, particularly tisagenlecleucel for B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, highlights a significant milestone in personalized medicine. By harnessing the body’s own immune system to fight cancer, he has paved a novel pathway for treatments once considered improbable, instilling hope in countless families facing childhood cancers.

Completing this distinguished assembly is Dr. Robert H. Vonderheide, a preeminent innovator in the fields of immunotherapy and immunobiology. As the director of the Abramson Cancer Center and vice dean for Cancer Programs at the Perelman School of Medicine, Vonderheide has been a driving force behind the integration of basic and clinical research. His groundbreaking studies have paved the way for the emergence of new cancer immunotherapies, including vaccines and antibody-based treatments, fundamentally changing the treatment landscape for oncological patients. By delving into the complex immunobiology of tumor microenvironments, his research has illuminated previously uncharted territories that hold promise for much-needed advancements in cancer therapy.

The AACR Academy’s election of these four distinguished researchers reinforces the collaborative spirit and the shared goal of combating cancer through innovative research. Each fellow, in their unique specialty, contributes to a greater understanding of cancer biology, therapeutic breakthroughs, and improved patient care strategies. Their collective work not only highlights their individual achievements but serves as a clarion call to the scientific community, urging continued exploration and commitment to understanding the intricate mechanisms underlying cancer.

As part of the AACR Academy’s mission, the newly elected fellows will be honored during the 2025 AACR Annual Meeting, scheduled for April 25-30 in Chicago. This prestigious gathering of scientists, clinicians, and thought leaders will provide a platform for sharing cutting-edge research and translating scientific discoveries into transformative clinical practices. The event will serve to celebrate these illustrious fellows’ contributions to the scientific community and further the dialogue surrounding future innovations in cancer research and therapy.

The continued emergence of these innovative therapies is vital, not solely for the scientific advancement they represent, but for the lives they potentially save and improve. As researchers like Brodeur, Domchek, Grupp, and Vonderheide push the boundaries of knowledge and technology within the field of oncology, their work exemplifies the essence of the AACR’s mission – preventing and curing all cancers. Their remarkable journey reflects an unwavering dedication, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in science, inspiring future generations to continue the battle against cancer.

In conclusion, the election of these four prominent figures into the AACR Academy represents a significant milestone in the ongoing fight against cancer. Their work exemplifies the power of collaboration, innovative research, and the tireless pursuit of better patient outcomes. As they continue to break ground in their respective fields, their efforts serve not only to enhance our understanding of cancer but also to provide hope in the hearts of patients and families facing seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Subject of Research: Innovations in Cancer Research and Treatment
Article Title: Pioneers of Oncology: Four Distinguished Researchers Elected to the AACR Academy
News Publication Date: October 18, 2023
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Keywords Cancer research, AACR Academy, oncology, immunotherapy, pediatric cancer, CAR T cell therapy, BRCA research, PARP inhibitors, cancer treatment innovations, molecular medicine

Tags: AACR Academy FellowshipAbramson Cancer Center achievementscancer prevention effortscancer research recognitionCancer Treatment Innovationcollaborative cancer advocacygroundbreaking cancer researchimproving patient outcomesoncology advancementspediatric oncology leadershipPenn Cancer ResearchUniversity of Pennsylvania medical contributions