Ron DePinho is a Portuguese doctor who is notably known and recognized in the field of cancer research. He is passionate about martial arts and very close to his family. He is currently working as a researcher, having worked at several American Universities including Harvard University. He is currently on faculty as a cancer researcher at the UT Anderson Cancer Center. He knows Portugal and loves the culture, friendliness and achievements of the Portuguese. He loves the hospitality of the Portuguese, as well as the stunning landscapes that the country has.
As a person, he is deeply committed to his family, faith and the community. He became interested in medicine in high school following the dissection of a frog in biology class, an experience that triggered a lifelong interest in understanding the molecular basis of life. He was also loved interacting with and serving others. So a profession in medicine made sense as it united his interests in science and in people. Beyond his professional activities, he has trained in martial arts (tae kwon do) for 50 years and hold a six-degree black belt. As a young man, “I represented the USA in competition.”
Professionally, “I have dedicated my career to advancing cancer research and treatment. I received my MD degree with distinction at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and conducted by residency in Internal Medicine at Columbia Presbyterian Medicine Center.” His independent scientific career began at Albert Einstein and was followed by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at Harvard Medical School. At Harvard, He was the founding director of the Belfer Institute. Ultimately, he moved to UT MD Anderson Cancer Center to be president for six years and now remain on the faculty as a cancer researcher.
His interest in medicine, particularly cancer research, stems from the loss of his father to colon cancer 25 years ago. That experience ignited a profound desire to understand the complexities of cancer and improve patient outcomes. “This passion has driven me to pursue innovative research and collaborate with talented multi-disciplinary team in academia and industry to advance our knowledge and treatment of cancer.”
He open a bit a door on his most recent achievement in cancer research. Recently, “our team made significant strides in understanding how the KRAS genetic mutation drives the development and maintenance of pancreas cancer. This discovery catalyzed many biopharmaceutical companies to develop an inhibitor of KRAS which has now gained approval in pancreas cancer patients. Our work has also illuminated how KRAS can be combined with immune therapies to generate durable responses in mice with pancreas cancer.
These promising combinations will enter into clinical testing in the coming year, offering hope to patients with previously untreatable forms of the disease.”
He graduated from medical school in 1981. His career has taken him to various parts of the United States, from New York to Boston and now Houston. In each city, “I grew to appreciate their wonderful culture and unique characteristics.”
As a “son of Portugal, I am committed to helping the land of my parents. One year ago, with the help of USA and PT colleagues, we convened a thinktank to identify areas of opportunity to advance cancer research in Portugal.”
Ten Portuguese and eleven USA institutions participated. This think led to Summer Cancer Research Course of young Portuguese scientist training, Visiting Professorships to exchange knowledge, and a collaborative initiative to foster trans-Atlantic collaborations between top investigators in each country. “ The program is underway and showing great momentum. This partnership allows us to combine our expertise and resources, fostering a global effort to improve cancer care and outcomes. It is a testament to the power of international collaboration in advancing medical science.” He said.
Professional goal and personal life?
Professionally, “my goal is to continue making impactful contributions to cancer research and treatment. I also strive to mentor the next generation of medical professionals and inspire them to pursue innovative solutions to complex health challenges. Personally, I aim to maintain a balanced life, nurturing my relationships with family and friends, and staying engaged in activities that bring me joy and fulfillment such as my martial arts training.”
He belongs to a second-generation Portuguese descendant. His parents emigrated from Portugal to provide better opportunities for our family. Their resilience and dedication have been a constant “source of inspiration in my life and career.”
Portugal is a country rich in history, culture, and tradition. He was always admired its beautiful landscapes and vibrant cities, but most of all, “I love the warmth and hospitality of the Portuguese people. Portugal’s contributions to the arts, sciences, and global exploration are remarkable. I am always proud to recount to others the role played by Prince Henry, Vasco da Gama and Magellan. I hold a deep respect for my heritage and feel a strong connection to the country and its people.”
For his fundamental contributions to cancer and aging and to healthcare, he has been recognized with numerous honors and awards. He was named one of the 100 most influential healthcare leaders, according to Modern Healthcare. His honors include the Melini Award for Biomedical Excellence, the American Society for Clinical Investigation Award, the Biomedicum Helsinki Medal, Albert Szent-Györgyi Prize, AACR Clowes Award, American-Italian Foundation Prize, among others.
He is a member of the National Academy of Medicine and the National Academy of Science, and a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the American Association of the Advancement of Science and the American Association of Cancer Research. He received Fordham University’s McMahon Memorial Award for Distinguished Public Service, honorary degrees from Harvard University and Hofstra University, and the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. For his work to improve the health of Portugal’s people, Dr. DePinho was recognized by its president with the highest commendation, the Order of Saint James of the Sword.
