Vivek Rangnekar

Vivek Rangnekar, Ph.D., is a Professor in Radiation Medicine and Program Leader at Markey Cancer Center (University of Kentucky). He holds a joint appointment in Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, with affiliations to the Cardiovascular and Diabetes & Obesity Research Priority Areas. As Associate Director of the Markey Cancer Center and holder of the Alfred M. Cohen M.D. Chair in Oncology Research, his work spans cancer molecular biology, cell signaling, and apoptosis.

• Education: Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Bombay (1983)

His research focuses on cancer cell biology, apoptosis regulation, and cell signaling in prostate and lung cancers. Recent studies investigate the tumor suppressor Par-4 (PAWR) and its role in autophagy-dependent ferroptosis, adipogenesis, and obesity-related cancer progression. He explores precision medicine through 3D tumor models, liquid biopsy integration, and drug repurposing (e.g., hydroxychloroquine, crizotinib).

Selected publications highlight Par-4's therapeutic potential, GRP78 targeting, and Wilms tumor mechanisms. Current grants from the KY Cabinet for Health and Family Services address treatment resistance and obesity's impact on leukemia. As a scientific mentor, he collaborates across disciplines, including computational biology, pharmacology, and clinical oncology.