Join Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes as she engages with trailblazers Karuna Ganesh, a medical oncologist specializing in colorectal cancer, and Chrysothemis Brown, a pediatrician focused on immune regulation. They dive into groundbreaking research on cancer metastasis and immune response. The discussion highlights the pivotal role of mentorship and philanthropy in fostering innovation in cancer science. Discover how these women are reshaping the landscape and empowering future generations in the fight against cancer.
Dr. Karuna Ganesh and Dr. Chrysothemis Brown are pioneering significant advancements in cancer research through innovative methods and immune system studies.
Philanthropy plays a vital role in supporting women in science, enabling high-risk research and fostering mentorship for emerging researchers.
Deep dives
Acknowledgment of Women in Science
The contributions of women in scientific fields, particularly in oncology, are often overlooked, with Rosalind Franklin's role in the discovery of DNA exemplifying this trend. Despite past challenges, today's women scientists are breaking barriers and making significant impacts in cancer research. Trailblazers such as Dr. Karuna Ganesh and Dr. Chrysanthemus Brown are recognized for their groundbreaking work in understanding colorectal cancer and immune regulation, respectively. These scientists emphasize the importance of acknowledgment, mentorship, and support to advance the representation and achievements of women in science.
Innovative Research Approaches
Dr. Brown's research focuses on immune regulation, aiming to understand how the immune system differentiates between harmful and benign entities, which has significant implications for cancer treatment. By studying how the immune system learns to tolerate microbiomes during early life, this work seeks to identify ways to trigger immune responses against cancer cells. Similarly, Dr. Ganesh's lab explores metastasis in colorectal cancer by developing organoids that mimic patient tumors, enhancing the understanding of how cancer cells adapt and resist treatment. Both researchers highlight innovative methods that bridge basic science with practical applications in cancer therapies.
The Role of Philanthropy in Advancing Science
Philanthropic support is crucial for advancing high-risk, high-reward scientific research that might not receive traditional funding. The guests illustrate how funding enables them to pursue innovative questions and ideas, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages creativity and exploration in their labs. Additionally, initiatives like the Kravis Wise program are designed to support women in science, providing mentorship and resources that empower young researchers. This emphasis on philanthropy not only aids scientific discovery but also cultivates a supportive community that enhances both personal and professional growth for women in the field.
In this episode, Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes speaks with 3 women breaking new ground in the field of cancer research: Dr. Karuna Ganesh studies metastasis and how cancer spreads, Dr. Chrysothemis Brown is unlocking secrets of our immune system to fight cancer, and Marie-Josée Kravis has donated generously to support women in cancer research. Together, they discuss their pioneering research, the importance of mentorship in science, and the critical role philanthropy plays in the biggest breakthroughs.