Michael R Abern

Michael R. Abern, MD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Urology at Duke University and a member of the Duke Cancer Institute. He completed his medical degree at Rush University Medical College (2006) and undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois (1996). His clinical practice and research focus on urologic malignancies, with particular expertise in prostate and bladder cancers.

Dr. Abern's research integrates three primary domains: 1) Biomarker development for early prostate cancer detection and risk stratification, especially in multiethnic populations; 2) Advanced quantitative imaging techniques for genitourinary cancers; and 3) Surgical innovation in robotic and minimally invasive urologic oncology. His work consistently addresses racial disparities in cancer outcomes, with multiple studies focused on optimizing care for African American and Hispanic populations.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on improving diagnostic accuracy through novel biomarkers (Stockholm3 test, microRNAs) and imaging modalities (biparametric MRI, blue-light cystoscopy), refining risk assessment tools for diverse populations, and evaluating genomic testing's impact on treatment decisions. Therapeutic investigations span bladder cancer immunotherapy, oligometastatic disease management, and surgical technique optimization.

Dr. Abern leads several major clinical trials as Principal Investigator, including:

• A Phase III study of Atezolizumab for high-risk bladder cancer (Genentech, 2023-2029)
• Droplet surgical drain for minimal residual disease detection (Droplet Biosciences, 2024-2029)
• Phase I/IIa study of STM-416 for recurrent bladder cancer (Surge Therapeutics, 2024-2029)
• Urolithin A supplementation trial for prostate cancer (Northwestern University, 2024-2025)