Gibbs Pancreatic Cancer Research Program
Pancreatic cancer, a lethal disease, is projected to claim the second spot in cancer-related deaths in the USA by 2040. The five-year survival rate for this condition is a mere 13%. The diagnostic and mortality rates show slight variance annually, affecting men and women almost equally. The mortality in pancreatic cancer patients is linked to the early spread of tumors to distant organs, the onset of cachexia, and the poor response of patients to treatments. These challenges underscore the pressing need for the research community to urgently develop and implement cutting-edge tools for early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Key Initiatives of the Gibbs Program:
Promoting Basic and Translational Research: We foster innovative basic and translational cancer research, emphasizing collaborative, team-based science to accelerate discoveries and improve patient outcomes.
Bi-Monthly Seminar Series: Our seminar series, held every two months, serves as an educational platform for researchers, clinicians, and the broader community. These sessions highlight cutting-edge research and facilitate interdisciplinary dialogue.
Rapid Autopsy Program: We operate a rapid autopsy initiative to collect and distribute rare and valuable biological materials. This program supports research at the University of Louisville and partner institutions nationwide, enabling unique insights into pancreatic cancer.
Gifts-of-Gibbs
The generous contributions from the Gibbs Foundation have played a key role in driving forward various cancer research programs, including those focused on pancreatic cancer, at the Brown Cancer Center. Established in 2014 by George Gibbs of Louisville, who we sadly lost to pancreatic cancer, the foundation continues his legacy of making a difference, ensuring that his passion for cancer research lives on. The Gibbs Pancreatic Cancer Research Program is committed to advancing the understanding and treatment of pancreatic cancer through innovative science and collaboration.
About the Director
Dr. Prakash Radhakrishnan is a tenured Professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Louisville School of Medicine and serves as Director of the Gibbs Pancreatic Cancer Research Program at the Brown Cancer Center. He is also a founding director of the University’s pioneering Rapid Autopsy Program for pancreatic cancer. Dr. Radhakrishnan has over 17 years of experience in pancreatic cancer research, focusing on understanding the molecular mechanisms driving pancreatic cancer progression and developing innovative therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes. He has published widely in peer-reviewed journals and actively mentors the next generation of scientists. Through his leadership, the Gibbs Program fosters collaboration, innovation, and excellence in pancreatic cancer research.
“Together, we can change the future of pancreatic cancer care. Partner with us, collaborate on groundbreaking research, or contribute to our mission today.”