Ronald A. DePinho

Ronald A. DePinho, M.D., is a Professor in the Department of Cancer Biology and the Department of Genomic Medicine at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX. He holds the prestigious Harry Graves Burkhart III Distinguished University Chair in Cancer Biology, reflecting his leadership and impact in cancer research. His laboratory is part of the Division of Discovery Science and focuses on fundamental mechanisms of cancer, aging, and degenerative diseases.

Research Interests:
Dr. DePinho's research spans multiple areas including cancer biology, genomic medicine, telomere biology, stem cell regulation, and the tumor microenvironment. His work employs genetically engineered mouse models to dissect molecular pathways in pancreatic, prostate, colorectal, and brain cancers. Key themes include telomere dysfunction, synthetic lethality, KRAS signaling, chromatin remodeling, and immune evasion mechanisms.

Recent Research Trends:
Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on targeting vulnerabilities in cancer through synthetic lethality, modulating the tumor microenvironment, and understanding the interplay between aging and cancer. His team has made significant contributions to understanding how telomere defects drive inflammation and neurodegeneration, and how metabolic and epigenetic dependencies can be exploited therapeutically in KRAS- and PTEN-driven cancers.

Scientific Awards and Recognition:

• Harry Graves Burkhart III Distinguished University Chair in Cancer Biology

Advising and Grants:
While specific students and grant details are not listed in the provided text, Dr. DePinho leads an active research laboratory and has mentored numerous trainees. He has been instrumental in translational initiatives such as the Institute for Applied Cancer Science at MD Anderson, aimed at accelerating drug discovery. His work has been supported by major funding mechanisms including NIH and CPRIT grants, and he advocates for strategic capital investment in biotech startups emerging from academic discoveries.

Laboratory and Team:
The DePinho Laboratory conducts interdisciplinary research integrating comparative genomics, mouse modeling, genetic screens, and bioinformatics. The lab has produced key insights into cancer initiation, progression, and therapeutic resistance, contributing to the development of novel drugs and biomarkers. The team collaborates widely across MD Anderson and beyond to advance precision oncology.