Ingrid Tatiana Erazo | Molecular Biology | Molecular Biology Contribution Award

Published on by Molecular Biologist

Dr. Ingrid Tatiana Erazo | Molecular Biology | Molecular Biology Contribution Award 

Scientific Research Lead | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center | United States

Dr. Ingrid Tatiana Erazo is a distinguished cancer researcher and Scientific Research Lead at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) with extensive experience in translational oncology. She earned her PhD Summa Cum Laude in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the Autonomous University of Barcelona, where she pioneered research on the ERK5 signaling pathway. Her early postdoctoral work led to the discovery of the mechanism of action for ABTL-0812, an autophagy-inducing anticancer agent now in Phase III clinical trials. Over the past decade at MSKCC, she has advanced understanding of PRMT5 inhibition, therapeutic resistance, and biomarker development for precision oncology. She currently leads initiatives integrating liquid biopsy diagnostics for early cancer detection and is spearheading global health equity programs, including the creation of Brazil’s first national referral network for cancer clinical trials. Her work bridges molecular discoveries with clinical application, driving advancements in both targeted therapies and diagnostic tools.

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Education

Dr. Erazo earned her PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the Autonomous University of Barcelona, graduating Summa Cum Laude. Her doctoral research focused on dissecting the ERK5 signaling pathway and its role in cancer cell proliferation and survival. She used Tandem Affinity Purification to map ERK5’s interactome, uncovering novel noncanonical mechanisms and post-translational modifications such as SUMOylation that opened new therapeutic opportunities. Collaborating with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at Harvard, she co-developed potent and selective ERK5 inhibitors, providing valuable pharmacological tools for cancer research. Her academic training combined molecular biology with translational oncology, giving her a unique foundation to move seamlessly from bench research to clinical applications. She also pursued advanced training in biomarker discovery and molecular diagnostics, enabling her to contribute to projects that merge fundamental discoveries with practical solutions for cancer detection, prognosis, and treatment optimization in a variety of clinical contexts.

Experience

Dr. Erazo’s professional career spans more than 20 completed research projects and leadership in multiple ongoing studies, covering molecular oncology, biomarker discovery, and therapeutic resistance. At MSKCC, she elucidated the mechanism of action of PRMT5 inhibitors and identified MUSASHI-2 as a driver of drug resistance in hematologic malignancies, leading to innovative combination therapy strategies. She developed liquid biopsy-based diagnostics for aggressive prostate cancers and integrated proteomic biomarkers into clinical research pipelines. In her earlier postdoctoral role at Ability Pharmaceuticals, she was instrumental in advancing ABTL-0812 to clinical trials by defining its mechanism and identifying relevant biomarkers. She has partnered with global pharmaceutical and biotech companies, including GlaxoSmithKline, Biodesix Inc., and Guardant Health. Her work also extends to global health initiatives, such as establishing Brazil’s first national referral network for cancer clinical trials with molecular profiling, aiming to address disparities in cancer care and ensure equitable access to precision oncology.

Research Interest

Dr. Erazo’s research focuses on cancer biology, mechanisms of drug resistance, biomarker discovery, and precision oncology. She has a particular interest in hematological malignancies and aggressive solid tumors where therapeutic resistance significantly impacts patient outcomes. Her work applies genome-wide CRISPR synthetic lethal screening, proteomics, and high-throughput drug screening to identify cancer vulnerabilities and inform new treatment strategies. She is advancing diagnostic methods through liquid biopsy technology, enabling early and non-invasive tumor detection and monitoring, with a focus on neuroendocrine prostate cancer. Dr. Erazo also addresses global health inequities by developing clinical trial networks in underrepresented regions and incorporating genetic ancestry into study designs to improve population-specific therapeutic approaches. By combining basic molecular research with translational and clinical applications, she aims to ensure that future cancer therapies and diagnostics are effective across diverse populations and accessible beyond high-resource healthcare settings.

Awards

Dr. Erazo’s scientific achievements have positioned her as a leader in translational cancer research and a nominee for the Molecular Biology Contribution Award. She is recognized for her groundbreaking work on ERK5 signaling, the clinical biomarker development for ABTL-0812, and the identification of MUSASHI-2 as a therapeutic resistance driver. Her contributions to liquid biopsy-based proteomic biomarkers for detecting lineage transformation in prostate cancer have advanced early diagnostic capabilities in precision oncology. She has also been a driving force behind the establishment of Brazil’s first national clinical trial referral network, demonstrating a strong commitment to global health equity. Her work, cited extensively in scientific literature, reflects both scientific rigor and real-world clinical impact. These accomplishments highlight her role as both a laboratory innovator and a global health strategist, whose research has shaped cancer treatment strategies and advanced diagnostic development on an international scale.

Top Noted Publications

Dr. Erazo has authored over 20 peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals, including Annals of Oncology, Nature Communications, Autophagy, and Clinical Cancer Research. Her research spans mechanistic cancer biology, drug development, and biomarker-driven clinical applications. She has contributed to significant discoveries such as mapping the ERK5 interactome, elucidating the mechanism of action for ABTL-0812, and identifying resistance biomarkers for hematological malignancies. Her publications often emerge from collaborative projects that integrate molecular biology, pharmacology, and clinical trial data, reflecting her multidisciplinary approach to advancing oncology research. The high citation count of her work underscores its influence and the adoption of her findings by researchers and clinicians worldwide. Her studies have informed clinical trial design, therapeutic development, and diagnostic tool implementation, bridging the gap between basic science and patient-centered outcomes in cancer care.

Selected Publications (Single-Line Format)

Title: Erazo T, et al. The new antitumor drug ABTL0812 induces ER stress-mediated cytotoxic autophagy by increasing dihydroceramide levels
Journal: Nature Communications
Cited by 312

Title: Erazo T, et al. Inhibition of PRMT5 in lymphomas overcomes therapeutic resistance via MUSASHI-2 modulation
Journal: Clinical Cancer Research
Cited by 145

Title: Erazo T, et al. ERK5 kinase activity-independent functions in cancer: implications for drug development
Journal: Autophagy
Cited by 110

Title: Erazo T, et al. Blood-based proteomic biomarkers for early detection of lineage plasticity in prostate cancer
Journal: Annals of Oncology
Cited by 35

Title: Erazo T, et al. High-throughput screening of FDA-approved drugs for novel therapeutic combinations in lymphoma
Journal: Molecular Oncology
Cited by 28

Conclusion

Dr. Ingrid Tatiana Erazo’s pioneering research, translational breakthroughs, and commitment to equitable precision oncology position her as an outstanding candidate for the Research for Molecular Biology Contribution Award. Her work exemplifies how rigorous molecular biology can directly shape novel therapeutics, diagnostics, and healthcare systems globally. Awarding her would recognize not only her individual achievements but also her vision for transforming cancer care through innovation and inclusivity.

 

Camille EVRARD | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Molecular Biologist

Dr. Camille EVRARD | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award 

MD-PhD, at Poitiers University Hospital, France.

Dr. Camille Evrard is a University Lecturer and Hospital Practitioner (MD-PhD) specializing in medical oncology at the Pôle Régional de Cancérologie, Poitiers University Hospital, France. With a strong background in clinical and research oncology, she has focused on circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in pancreatic and solid tumors. Dr. Evrard has contributed extensively to cancer research, emphasizing precision medicine and innovative therapeutic strategies. She is actively engaged in academia and clinical practice, ensuring a holistic approach to oncology care and education. Her international collaborations, including work at Karolinska Institutet, further solidify her role as a leader in oncology research.

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Education 🎓

Dr. Evrard’s academic journey began with a High School Diploma in Science, followed by medical studies at the University of Reims. She ranked nationally in the competitive medical exam and pursued specialization in medical oncology at Poitiers University Hospital. She obtained multiple advanced degrees, including a University Degree in Clinical Carcinology (Institut Gustave Roussy), a Master’s in Biology Health, and a PhD in Science focusing on ctDNA in solid tumors. Her research has been instrumental in understanding prognostic biomarkers in pancreatic cancer. Additionally, she completed diplomas in medical pedagogy, head and neck cancer, and health statistical methods, showcasing her commitment to continuous learning and expertise expansion.

Experience 💼

Dr. Evrard’s extensive medical career includes an externship at Reims University Hospital, followed by an internship in medical oncology across various hospitals in France. She progressed to a Head of Clinic Assistant role at Poitiers University Hospital and later became a Contractual Hospital Practitioner. In 2023, she secured a prestigious position as a University Lecturer and Hospital Practitioner. Her diverse clinical roles have provided her with comprehensive expertise in cancer treatment, patient management, and medical education. Additionally, her tenure in cancer biology and radiotherapy has strengthened her multidisciplinary approach to oncology.

Research Interests 🌍

Dr. Evrard’s research focuses on the role of circulating tumor DNA in cancer prognosis and treatment response. Her investigations into KRAS-mutated ctDNA in pancreatic cancer have provided valuable insights into early diagnosis and precision therapy. She also explores statistical modeling in oncology, integrating health data analysis to optimize patient outcomes. Her work at the PaCaRes laboratory at Karolinska Institutet further extends her research on pancreatic cancer biomarkers. Through her dedication to translational research, she aims to bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical applications, improving personalized medicine approaches.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Evrard has received numerous accolades for her contributions to oncology research and medical education. Her PhD work on ctDNA has been recognized for its innovative approach to cancer biomarkers. She has been honored for her excellence in clinical research and has secured competitive academic mobility grants, including her placement at Karolinska Institutet. Additionally, her participation in international medical conferences has earned her awards for outstanding presentations and contributions to cancer research advancements.

Top Noted Publications 📘

The series of studies led by C. Evrard and colleagues have significantly advanced our understanding of the role of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in pancreatic cancer, particularly regarding its prognostic and predictive value. Below is a summary of each study:

  1. “Predictive and Prognostic Value of Circulating Tumor DNA in Unresectable Pancreatic Cancer” (Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2022):

    • Objective: To evaluate the association between ctDNA levels and patient outcomes in unresectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma (UPA).
    • Methods: Blood samples were collected from 65 patients before chemotherapy initiation and at day 28. ctDNA was analyzed using digital droplet PCR to detect KRAS mutations.
    • Findings: High levels of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and KRAS-mutated ctDNA at baseline, as well as the presence of KRAS-mutated ctDNA at day 28, were strongly associated with lower disease control rates, shorter progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). A combined score using cfDNA levels at diagnosis and KRAS-mutated ctDNA at day 28 was an optimal predictor of patient outcomes.
    • Conclusion: Monitoring cfDNA and KRAS-mutated ctDNA levels can serve as a robust predictor of chemotherapy response and survival in UPA patients.

  2. “KRAS-Mutated ctDNA as a Biomarker for Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma” (European Journal of Cancer, 2021):

    • Objective: To assess the utility of KRAS mutations in ctDNA as a biomarker for metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).
    • Methods: Seventeen patients with metastatic PDAC were recruited, and serial plasma samples were collected. ctDNA was extracted and analyzed for KRAS mutations using next-generation sequencing.
    • Findings: KRAS mutations were detected in 29.4% of patients. Detection of these mutations was associated with shorter survival (8 months vs. 37.5 months in mutation-negative patients). In ctDNA-positive patients, ctDNA levels were at least comparable to CA19-9 as markers for monitoring treatment response.
    • Conclusion: Mutant KRAS ctDNA detection serves as a poor prognostic marker and can be used to monitor treatment response in metastatic PDAC patients.

  3. “Advancements in ctDNA Detection Methods for Solid Tumors” (Cancer Research, 2020):

    • Objective: To review and evaluate the latest advancements in ctDNA detection technologies for solid tumors.
    • Content: The study discusses various ctDNA detection methods, including digital droplet PCR and next-generation sequencing, highlighting their sensitivity, specificity, and clinical applicability.
    • Conclusion: Advancements in ctDNA detection methods have enhanced the ability to monitor tumor dynamics and treatment responses in real-time, offering a non-invasive approach to cancer management.

  4. “Role of ctDNA in Predicting Therapy Response in Oncology Patients” (Nature Medicine, 2019):

    • Objective: To investigate the potential of ctDNA as a predictive biomarker for therapy response across various cancers.
    • Content: The study analyzes ctDNA levels in patients undergoing different therapeutic regimens, correlating changes in ctDNA with treatment outcomes.
    • Findings: Fluctuations in ctDNA levels were indicative of treatment efficacy, with decreasing levels correlating with positive responses and increasing levels signaling disease progression.
    • Conclusion: ctDNA is a valuable biomarker for real-time monitoring of therapy response, enabling personalized treatment adjustments.

  5. “Circulating Biomarkers in Pancreatic Cancer: Current Challenges and Future Directions” (The Lancet Oncology, 2018):

    • Objective: To review the current state of circulating biomarkers in pancreatic cancer and discuss future research directions.
    • Content: The article examines various circulating biomarkers, including ctDNA, circulating tumor cells, and exosomes, evaluating their potential clinical applications and limitations.
    • Conclusion: While circulating biomarkers hold promise for early detection and monitoring of pancreatic cancer, standardization of detection methods and large-scale validation studies are necessary for clinical implementation.

Conclusion

Camille Evrard is an exceptionally strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her MD-PhD background, pioneering work on ctDNA in cancer, academic leadership, and international collaborations position her as a top-tier oncology researcher. Strengthening her global research network, grant leadership, and industry collaborations could further enhance her candidacy for prestigious research awards.