David J Shapiro

David J Shapiro is a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Illinois. His research focuses on drug discovery, cancer cell death pathways, and immunotherapy, particularly targeting metastatic cancers. He has contributed to the development of ErSO, a small molecule that induces necrotic cell death in cancer cells. Shapiro holds a B.S. from Brooklyn College (1967), a Ph.D. from Purdue University (1972), and completed postdoctoral training at Stanford University (1972-1974). He was a Guggenheim Fellow (1985-1986) and an Eugene Howe Scholar (2016-2021).

Education:

• B.S., Brooklyn College, 1967
• Ph.D., Purdue University, 1972
• Postdoctoral Fellow, Stanford University Medical School (1972-1973) and Stanford University (1973-1974)

Research Interests: Shapiro’s work centers on anticancer drug discovery, particularly leveraging the unfolded protein response (a-UPR) pathway. His lab investigates novel therapies to enhance immunotherapy efficacy and combat metastatic cancers. Key projects include the development of ErSO, which hyperactivates tumor-protective pathways to induce necrosis, and elucidating the molecular mechanisms of immunogenic cell death.

Recent Articles: Shapiro’s recent work explores optogenetic control of cell death pathways and the role of TRPM4 channels in necrosis. His research highlights interdisciplinary approaches, combining CRISPR screens, drug development, and metabolic studies to advance cancer treatment strategies.

Awards & Media:

• Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology News (2023): Key Driver of Necrosis in Cancer Cells Identified
• Science Daily (2023): Team Identifies Key Driver of Cancer Cell Death Pathway
• Nature Reviews Drug Discovery (2021): UPR Activator Eliminates Breast Tumors

Advising & Collaborations: Shapiro collaborates with researchers like Paul Hergenrother (Chemistry) on drug development. His work integrates molecular biology, pharmacology, and clinical insights to address unmet needs in oncology.

Labs/Teams: His lab at the University of Illinois focuses on translational cancer research, emphasizing drug discovery and mechanistic studies of cell death pathways.