Pathology faculty receive funding for breast cancer research

From left, Luis del Pozo-Yauner, M.D., Ph.D.; Debanjan Chakroborty, Ph.D.; and Seema Singh, Ph.D., were awarded grants from the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama at a luncheon in early December.

Three pathology faculty members at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama were awarded grants from the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama (BCRFA) as part of the organization’s $1.3 million investment in state-based research in 2022.

Debanjan Chakroborty, Ph.D., assistant professor of pathology; Seema Singh, Ph.D., professor of pathology; and Luis del Pozo-Yauner, M.D., Ph.D., assistant professor of pathology, will examine different aspects of breast cancer, the most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women in the United States. 

The highly competitive grants provide each researcher $50,000 in funding per year for two years. The awards function as seed funding for early-stage studies, allowing researchers to generate the additional data needed to attract major national funding. 

The goal of Chakroborty’s proposed research is to establish a molecular link between hypertension and breast cancer progression. Studies suggest that women with high blood pressure have an increased risk of developing breast cancer in their lifetime compared to women who have normal blood pressure. Furthermore, hypertension is often observed in patients with advanced breast cancer. 

However, the molecular connection between hypertension and breast cancer is not clearly understood, Chakroborty said. Specifically, his research aims to identify the role of a protein-coding gene known as WNK1 (WNK Lysine Deficient Protein Kinase 1) in progression of the disease.

“Our preliminary studies have identified that WNK1, which is a master regulator of hypertension, is overexpressed in a subset of patients with breast cancer and is associated with worse prognosis,” Chakroborty said.  

The study will be conducted in collaboration with Singh, fellow BCRFA grant recipient, and Elba A. Turbat-Herrera, M.D., professor of pathology at the Whiddon College of Medicine and director of the biobank at the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute. 

Singh, who is also a senior member of the cancer biology program at the Mitchell Cancer Institute, will examine how exposure to stress shapes the tumor immune microenvironment. “It is believed that the immune cell composition within the tumor plays a key role in defining the therapeutic responses while also supporting aggressive tumor growth,” she said. “Further, in our ongoing research, we have found that African American women are exposed to more psychosocial and economic stressors, creating a hormonal imbalance that weakens their immune system and supports breast tumor cell growth.”

Breast cancer disproportionately affects Black women, who experience earlier onset and more aggressive disease diagnoses leading to higher mortality rates than their white counterparts. The study will include breast tumor samples of different molecular subtypes from Black women and white women, which will provide researchers with information on whether race acts as a modifying factor in shaping the immune tumor microenvironment and if immune cell composition varies among different subtypes. 

“The resulting data will enhance our understanding of breast cancer immune landscape diversity and its association with stress exposure in the cancer patient,” she said.

Singh’s long-term collaborators include Ajay Singh, Ph.D., professor of pathology and leader of the cancer biology program at the Mitchell Cancer Institute; and Elliot Carter, M.D., professor of pathology. Her lab team includes postdoctoral researchers Amod Sharma, Ph.D., and Sarabjeet Kour Sudan, Ph.D.

Del Pozo-Yauner’s research will focus on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), an aggressive subtype characterized by a high tendency to grow and metastasize faster and to develop resistance to anti-cancer therapy. TNBC disproportionately affects Black women and contributes to the disparities in breast cancer mortality.

The study will look at polyploid giant cancer cells that overexpress a protein known as PERK. Polyploid giant cancer cells are a common finding in human cancers, particularly high-grade and post-treatment cancers, as well as in metastases. The PERK protein regulates an important mechanism that cells use to protect themselves from conditions that cause cellular stress, such as chronic inflammation, hyperthermia and treatment with antitumor agents. 

“Interestingly, overexpression of PERK protein has been reported to promote chemotherapy resistance in breast cancer,” Del Pozo-Yauner said. “Considering our preliminary data, as well as findings from other laboratories, we postulate that the subset of polyploid giant cancer cells that overexpress the PERK protein is associated with a poor response to chemotherapy in African American women with breast cancer, particularly those with triple-negative subtype.” 

The research team includes Turbat-Herrera; Veronica Ramirez Alcantara, Ph.D., manager of the USA Health Biobank; and Madhuri Mulekar, Ph.D., professor and chair of mathematics and statistics at the University of South Alabama. 

The grant recipients expressed their gratitude to Guillermo A. Herrera, M.D., professor and chair of pathology; and Ajay Singh, Ph.D., director of research for pathology; and Martin Heslin, M.D., M.S.H.A., director of the Mitchell Cancer Institute, for their support.

BCRFA is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to find a cure for breast cancer by funding promising breast cancer research in Alabama. BCRFA funds promote a comprehensive approach to battling breast cancer by fueling collaborative and innovative research to help diagnose, treat, prevent and eradicate the disease. 

Thakur presents at North American Skull Base Society Annual Meeting

Jai Thakur, M.D., second from left, assistant professor of neurosurgery, discussed several aspects of skull base surgery at the annual meeting.

Jai Thakur, M.D., director of minimally invasive cranial and skull base neurosurgery at USA Health, was invited to deliver lectures at the North American Skull Base Society Annual Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona, earlier this year. 

Thakur, who is an assistant professor of neurosurgery at the Whiddon College of Medicine, gave three lectures during the meeting covering different aspects of skull base surgery: 

• Skull Base Complication Avoidance: Lessons Learned in the First Year of Practice 
• Far Lateral Approach for Skull Base Pathology 
• Open Approaches to the Anterior Skull Base – Nuances and Pearls 

Jai Thakur, M.D., and D. Nikki Chason, CRNP,

presented on a procedure they performed together.

D. Nikki Chason, CRNP, a nurse practitioner at USA Health Neurosurgery, accompanied Thakur to discuss a procedure they performed together. The duo used an eyebrow incision to successfully remove a large skull base meningioma that had invaded the patient’s optic canal, resulting in near blindness.  

Thakur said this technique is an innovative approach that has yet to be published.  

Founded in 1989, the North American Skull Base Society is a professional medical society facilitating knowledge exchange and innovative discussion between surgeons and students worldwide and serves as the most popular platform in the world for skull base surgeons in neurosurgery, ENT surgery, neuro-ophthalmology and oncology.  

Faculty Development Grand Rounds to begin Jan. 13

The Whiddon College of Medicine’s Office of Faculty Affairs and Faculty Development is pleased to announce the launch of Faculty Fridays: Faculty Development Grand Rounds. These one-hour meetings will be available to all faculty via Zoom each month on specific Fridays at noon. The topics will be focused on the needs and desires of the faculty.

The inaugural session is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 13, 2023, at noon. Binata Mukherjee, M.D., M.B.A., assistant dean of faculty and professional development and associate professor of internal medicine at the Whiddon College of Medicine, will present "Resilience: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly."  

Visit the Office of Continuing Medical Education CME tracker to sign up to attend.  

Basic Medical Sciences students graduate, move on to new labs

Hanna Laukaitis, one of this year’s BMS graduates, is a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Maryland-Baltimore. 

Seven students in the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine were awarded their Ph.D. in Basic Medical Sciences during the fall 2022 commencement. This doctoral program encourages highly motivated scientists to use innovative approaches in their chosen field of research. Its interdisciplinary curriculum and tailored mentorship help students build cutting-edge skills and critical thinking essential to advancing medical breakthroughs. 

Concentrations in five research tracks are available: Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Biology; Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology; Infectious Disease and Host Defense; Neuroscience; and Biomedical Engineering and Bioinformatics. 

These targeted areas allow students to absorb knowledge from experts in their field and make professional connections to further their careers in academia, industry, government and more.

Krit Jirakanwisal with his major professor,
Kevin Macaluso, Ph.D. 

Alexander Coley translated his research in cancer genomics to a position with a biotechnology company that uses one of the world’s largest libraries of data to drive personalized patient care, while fostering discovery and development. 

“I have begun work as a translational research solutions scientist for Tempus Labs Inc., where I work with pharmaceutical companies to plan and execute bioinformatics projects using Tempus’ real-world cancer patient data,” he said. “I work fully remote, currently residing in Mobile with my wife and three children. I had a great experience at South and in the Borchert lab where I gained the subject matter and technical expertise to get hired into a great role by a biotech company.”

Hanna Laukaitis, another of this year’s graduates, is a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Maryland-Baltimore. “The lab focuses on understanding the different factors that are influenced by a tick bite at the skin interface as well as the biological changes that occur when ticks consume a bloodmeal,” she said. “As for my future, I plan to stay in academia to continue studying vector-borne diseases.”

Krit Jirakanwisal has his sights set on a slightly different path. “Currently, I am pursuing an infectious disease postdoctoral fellowship focused on neuroinflammation and neuroinfectious diseases at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas,” he said. “My goal after completing my postdoctoral fellowship is to establish an independent research program. I’d like to extend my gratitude to my mentor, as well as the faculty and staff of the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and the BMS program for their support on my journey to attaining my Ph.D.”

Sirin Saranyutanon will continue her
research in Thailand.

Sirin Saranyutanon is traveling the longest distance among her fellow graduates. “I'm following my goal and going back to my home country, Thailand, to serve as a university lecturer and researcher in the field of medical science, molecular biology and biochemistry,” she said.

Her research explored the effect of nicotine on the immune response, progression of prostate cancer and treatment outcomes. “When I was at South, I had the opportunity to interact with astonishing scientists in my field, and I am always learning and growing from my interactions with faculties, postdocs, academic advisers and fellow students,” Saranyutanon said. “Moreover, I also had a lot of fun and friendships there with my classmates and people around me. Studying abroad at the University of South Alabama was one of the best decisions that I ever made.”

The seven BMS graduates are:

Abigail Grace Boyd
Dissertation: Role of Type 4 Phosphodiesterases in Thermoregulation and Salivation in Mice
Major professor: Wito Richter, Ph.D.

Alexander Bishop Coley
Dissertation: Novel Regulators of Human Gene Expression
Major professor: Glen Borchert, Ph.D.

Md Ibrahim
Dissertation: Replication Associated Base Excision Repair Regulates Replication Stress Induced PARP1/PARP2 Activation and Impacts PARP and PARG Inhibitor Resistance
Major professor: Robert Sobol, Ph.D.

Krit Jirakanwisal
Dissertation: Interaction of Rickettsia felis and Wolbachia Endosymbionts in Cat Fleas, Ctenocephalides felis
Major professor: Kevin Macaluso, Ph.D.

Hanna Joan Laukaitis
Dissertation: Infection and Transmission Determinants of Flea-Borne Rickettsioses
Major professor: Kevin Macaluso, Ph.D.

Mary Kate McConnell
Dissertation: The Role of PARP1 and NAD+ Bioavailability in Base Excision and Single-Strand Break Repair
Major professor: Robert Sobol, Ph.D.

Sirin Saranyutanon
Dissertation: The Effect of Nicotine on Immune Suppression and Prostate Cancer Pathogenesis
Major professor: Ajay Singh, Ph.D.

Sickle Cell Center leadership changes announced

After the recent passing of Johnson Haynes Jr., M.D., Ardie Pack-Mabien, FNP-BC, will lead as the interim director of the Johnson Haynes Jr., M.D., Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center. She has served as a nurse practitioner at the Sickle Cell Center since 1997. 

In 2018, she was recognized as the Outstanding Regional Nurse Practitioner for the Bay Area by the Nurse Practitioner Alliance of Alabama. In 2014, she was awarded the USA Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center Outstanding Service and Recognition Award.

Pack-Mabien completed her graduate studies at the University of Mobile and postgraduate studies at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She is available to see patients at the Mastin Patient Care Center and the Strada Patient Care Center.

In addition, Allison Bolton, M.D., and Antwan Hogue, M.D., will serve as collaborating physicians for the Sickle Cell Center to ensure that Haynes’ legacy of outstanding outpatient and inpatient care continues.

Center for Healthy Communities hosts first professional development forum

The USA Center for Healthy Communities and the Mobile County Health Department held the first Pathways to Purpose Professional Development Forum on Dec. 8, offering continued training opportunities for community health workers (CHWs) certified within the Mobile County Community Health Worker Coalition.  

Roma Hanks, Ph.D., director of the Center for Healthy Communities’ Community Health Advocates Program, said the forum was a success. “Professional development activities such as this forum allow CHWs to refresh and expand their skill set, network with their peers, share experiences, learn from each other and grow in their identity as valuable health equity agents in the communities where they practice,” said Hanks, who serves as lead for the Center for Healthy Communities' training activities. “Whether it is another pandemic or hurricane, our goal is to have these communities better prepared to meet any of the challenges they may face.”  

Lynette Parker, research coordinator at the center, said more than two dozen attendees learned about various tools and skills that help them have greater community impact, including understanding the role of zip codes in community work and the importance of community health research for traditionally marginalized communities.  

The partnership between the Center for Healthy Communities and the Mobile County Health Department – now in its second year – aims to increase the number of community health workers who will empower struggling communities to build resilience in the event of a disaster. The grant was formed in response to a $300 million national initiative by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to fund organizations that could bolster local community health worker capacity.  

According to Martha Arrieta, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H., who serves as interim director of the USA Center for Healthy Communities, community health workers undergo initial training to sharpen their natural skills as leaders and connectors, as well as acquire knowledge and tools that increase their effectiveness in the many roles they will take on. “Such roles include acting as liaisons between community members and the healthcare and social services systems, while also serving as health educators, advocates for individuals and communities, and health outreach agents,” she said.  

The project is almost to the halfway point of its three-year award period. “To date, the coalition has trained 19 CWHs across 15 varying organizations, including the MCHD and CHC teams as well as 12 faith-based organizations and one private business,” Arrieta said.   

Antonette Francis-Shearer, Ph.D., who serves as health education manager at the Center for Healthy Communities, said the center has also taken the lead in piloting the clinical integration of CHWs within a multidisciplinary healthcare team, having placed two CHWs to regularly service Stanton Road Clinic, with support from the dedicated management team and staff there. 

“Simultaneously, the Mobile County Health Department has expanded its own capacity to train and supervise CHWs,” Francis-Shearer said. “Through support of CHWs from organizations that are trusted in the community, MCHD has also worked to expand the reach of the Coalition, resulting in a number of community-based outreach activities.”  

View more photos from the event on Flickr. 

Create a page in our 50th anniversary book

In honor of the 50th anniversary of the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine, the USA Medical Alumni Association is calling all alumni, past and current faculty and staff, and past and current residents to create a page in our 50th anniversary celebration book on BrightCrowd. 

Visit southalabama.brightcrowd.com/maa-50th to view the book and create your own page. 

Meet a Med Student: Yulong Huang

Yulong Huang

Age: 22

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Dickson, Tennessee

Undergraduate institution and degrees earned: University of South Alabama, B.S. in biomedical sciences and B.A. in philosophy

What do you enjoy most about being a medical student at the Whiddon College of Medicine?
I feel incredibly supported and encouraged by my classmates and faculty. The small class size means that I’ve had the chance to spend time with everyone in my year. We really are a tight-knit community!

Are you involved in any research, organizations or other initiatives at the College of Medicine?
I am one of several PEER Supporters and the secretary for Christian Medical Ministry of South Alabama (CMMSA). Over the summer, I co-organized the M1 summer orientation (with Naden Kreitz and our wonderful subcommittees of volunteers) for the class of 2026. Additionally, I volunteer in teaching English classes at Dwell Mobile. As for research, I’ve recently joined Dr. Thuy Phung’s project on melanoma and machine learning in the Department of Pathology.

What are your interests and hobbies?
Zumba, walking/hiking, thrift/vintage shopping, playing video games, spoiling my dog

What is something unique about you?
I’ve dyed my hair seven different colors, the more fun ones being blue, purple, orange, pink and rose gold.

USA grieves loss of Professor Emeritus Frank S. Pettyjohn, M.D.

Frank S. Pettyjohn, M.D., passed away on Dec. 6, 2022, at his home in Gulf Breeze, Florida. An internationally recognized expert in aviation and space medicine, he served on the emergency medicine and internal medicine faculty at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine from 1989 until his retirement in 2017. 

A native of Delaware, Pettyjohn graduated from the University of Delaware with a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering and entered the U.S. Army as a 2nd lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers serving in Korea. Following his return, he received his medical degree from Hahnemann University School of Medicine in Philadelphia.

Pettyjohn served in Vietnam as a flight surgeon for the 17th Combat Aviation Group in 1966. On his return, he completed his internal medicine residency and cardiology fellowship at Madigan Army Medical Center in Fort Lewis, Washington. He completed a postdoctoral fellowship in public health/preventive medicine at the University of Washington in Seattle. He also completed a residency in aerospace medicine at Brooks Air Force Base in San Antonio. 

Pettyjohn was a cardiologist and flight surgeon for Operation Homecoming to return Vietnam POWs to the United States in 1973. He joined the U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory at Fort Rucker, Alabama, conducting research in the fields of aeromedical evacuation, oxygen systems, trauma and altitude physiology. He continued his research at the Naval Aeromedical Research Laboratory in Pensacola, Florida. 

Upon leaving military service, he joined the Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama in 1989 as professor and founding chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine. He also served as chief of the cardiology division from 2001 to 2008. 

Pettyjohn was recalled to the U.S. Army in 1991 as a cardiologist and aviation medicine consultant at the U.S. Army Aeromedical Center during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. He was a member of the aeromedical team that returned POWs from Desert Storm to the United States. In December 2008, he again returned to active duty in the U.S. Army as a flight surgeon and cardiologist with the 345th Combat Support Hospital in Tikrit, Iraq.

He was board certified in internal medicine, cardiovascular disease, preventive medicine (aerospace medicine) and emergency medicine. He retired as professor emeritus from the University of South Alabama in 2017. Beginning in 2018, he was a member of the Board of Directors of the University of South Alabama Foundation.

Pettyjohn will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with full military honors at Barrancas National Cemetery onboard NAS Pensacola. A celebration to honor his life and military service will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Jan. 14, 2023, at Felix’s Restaurant, 400 Quietwater Beach Road, Pensacola Beach, FL.

USA scientists win NIH grant to study ticks, leprosy

Natthida Tongluan, a graduate research assistant in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, conducts research in the Laboratory of Infectious Diseases.

Researchers at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama have been awarded a $423,500 grant from the National Institutes of Health to study the potential for ticks to transmit leprosy.

The research, led by Kevin Macaluso, Ph.D., chair of microbiology and immunology, will make an assessment of leprosy infection and transmission by Amblyomma ticks. Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is an infection with Mycobacterium leprae, a bacteria found in the southern United States and elsewhere that spreads to animals, mostly armadillos, and people.

“We know from our previous study that ticks have the potential to harbor leprosy,” Macaluso said. “The next step will advance the field by attempting to pinpoint the details of transmission.”

The researchers at the Whiddon College of Medicine will work in collaboration with the Laboratory Research Branch of National Hansen’s Disease Programs in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

The researchers’ previous study, published earlier this year in Frontiers in Microbiology, suggested that ticks have the potential for transmitting leprosy. They injected ticks in the nymph stage with leprosy and used DNA analysis to conclude that the infection could be maintained in tick-derived cells. Natthida Tongluan, a graduate research assistant in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, was lead author of the paper.

Often considered an ancient disease from biblical times, leprosy is far from eradicated. In 2019, more than 200,000 new cases worldwide were reported to the World Health Organization. Some 150 to 200 new cases are reported each year in the United States, mostly in Florida, California, Louisiana, Hawaii, Texas and New York.

The majority of leprosy patients report that they spend extensive time outdoors but rarely come in contact with armadillos, a known carrier of the disease, or infected people. While researchers have long believed arthropods could play a role, they have not been able to find conclusive evidence to that effect.

Disaster healthcare preparedness director retires from USA

After 19 years with the University of South Alabama, David Wallace, D.V.M., director of the Center for Disaster Healthcare Preparedness at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine, will retire at the end of this year.

A reception in his honor will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 14, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Center for Disaster Healthcare Preparedness, TRP III, Suite 1100. This drop-in reception is open to the entire university community. 

“My time at South Alabama has been the most rewarding time of my career,” Wallace said. “I’ve been very fortunate for the confidence the university, specifically the College of Medicine, has shown in me and the staff of CDHP. I ask every day how I got so lucky to have the team I do.”

Funded by the Alabama Department of Public Health, the Center for Disaster Healthcare Preparedness provides comprehensive disaster healthcare preparedness training and continuing medical education for Alabama healthcare professionals, healthcare coalition partners, emergency management professionals, volunteers and public officials.

“We’ve been able to build a nationally recognized program from the ground up – only about 10 people came to our first class, and we’re over 20,000 now,” Wallace said. “With where we are today, I’m positively confident that CDHP will continue, and it will only get better as each year passes.”

Wallace said the first class the center offered was a two-day basic course. At the same time, the team was developing the Alabama Incident Management System (AIMS) for the state health department, the state’s online healthcare emergency response situational awareness tool.

“AIMS is still operating today with several thousand users and was the backbone of data collection in Alabama during COVID,” he said. “Alabama, through AIMS, was one of very few states with 100% Alabama hospital compliance in reporting to the Department of Health and Human Resources during COVID, and is recognized nationally as one of the best situational awareness tools of its type.”

Wallace has more than 25 years of experience in public health, emergency preparedness and disaster planning. Prior to joining USA in 2003, he worked 11 years at the Mobile County Health Department as the director of the Bureau of Environmental Health, emergency management and disaster preparedness coordinator, and bioterrorism preparedness coordinator.

He served in the United States Air Force and the Air Force Reserve as a public health officer, readiness officer, mobility officer, medical intelligence officer, WMD training officer and decontamination team chief. 

He earned a degree in veterinary medicine from Auburn University and spent five years in veterinary practice for small animal medicine and surgery. 

Meet a Med Student: Meagan Jones

Meagan Jones

Age: 23

Class of: 2026

Hometown: Hurley, Mississippi

Undergraduate institution and degree earned: University of South Alabama, B.S. in biomedical sciences

What do you enjoy most about being a medical student at the Whiddon College of Medicine?
I love being able to learn in such an uplifting and encouraging environment at the Whiddon College of Medicine. Our class works together and sends each other study materials, flash cards and practice questions; and I feel like I could go up and talk to anyone if I needed help on a subject, or just someone to talk to. Our professors really care about our education and want to see us succeed and become successful physicians. Having such a great atmosphere surrounding our education and classes really helps me stay positive and encouraged, even when I'm five lectures and 975 Anki cards behind (LOL).  

Are you involved in any research, organizations or other initiatives at the College of Medicine?
I am the Class of 2026's SGA representative, and I really enjoy getting to work with my fellow class officers. I am also a part of the Social Media Committee, who helps our awesome leader, Beth, come up with cool aspects to add to our social media accounts. In addition, I currently volunteer with the Student-Run Free Clinic in downtown Mobile, and I have really enjoyed being a part of that experience. I am a part of several specialty interest groups, and I hope to continue to be more involved as I continue my journey here!

What are your interests and hobbies?
One of my new interests that I have picked up while at the College of Medicine is watching football. I love having it on in the background while I study because it is great white noise, and when the crowd starts to get a little louder, I can look up just in time to see the best plays. I don't really have a huge affiliation to any college football team (except the Jags!), but I am a huge Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets fan. I also love to read during my study breaks, and I have a huge collection of books that I am working on reading. But, my absolute favorite thing to do is to spend time with my family, friends and my dog.

What is something unique about you?
Something unique about me is my extensive collection of cups, mugs, and water bottles. I don't know what it is about them, but I am obsessed! I have all kinds of water bottles, from glass to stainless steel, to huge one-gallon jugs. All of my classmates always like to see what bottle I bring to class that day, and I love having a fun way to stay hydrated. If you need a great bottle recommendation, don't be afraid to reach out! :)

Graduate student to train in clinical and translational research program

Mary O. Haastrup, M.D., a Ph.D. candidate in the Basic Medical Sciences Graduate Program, was selected to participate in the Clinical and Translational Science Training Program (CTSTP), a six-month certificate program that prepares participants to conduct clinical and translational research responsibly.

Organized by the Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS), the program consists of approximately 50 hours of didactic lecture and interactive programming. Trainees will participate in two-hour class sessions each week for six months, beginning in January, as well as present their research at the University of Alabama at Birmingham campus in April.

Haastrup, who is in the graduate program’s molecular, cell and cancer biology track, is studying the role of a mitochondrial protein in pancreatic cancer. She is conducting her dissertation research under Ajay Singh, Ph.D., professor of pathology and leader of the cancer biology program at the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute, and Santanu Dasgupta, Ph.D., assistant professor of pathology and a cancer researcher at the MCI.

Originally from Oyo State in southwestern Nigeria, Haastrup earned her medical degree from Lugansk State Medical University in Ukraine. She said she decided to pursue a Ph.D. to better understand the pathological basis of chronic diseases, especially cancer. 

After earning her doctorate, Haastrup intends to work as a clinical researcher “to integrate my knowledge as a physician and biomedical scientist in formulating better clinical research questions and execute clinical research projects, thereby bringing about novel discoveries that would be beneficial to patients and contribute to the advancement of science,” she said.  

Specialized training in clinical and translational research will prepare her to achieve this goal. “Participating in the CTSTP will equip me with critical knowledge about clinical trials, ethics and outcomes research, ultimately potentiating my transition into an excellent clinical researcher,” she said.

The Center for Clinical and Translational Science was established in 2008 and is funded by a Clinical and Translational Science Award from the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences. The CCTS Partner Network comprises 11 academic research institutions across Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. 

MAA calls for 50 People of Influence Award nominations

The USA Medical Alumni Association is seeking nominations for the 50 People of Influence Award. 

The award will recognize those who have significantly impacted the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine throughout its 50-year history through their outstanding achievements, service, and/or leadership to the college and the communities they serve. Alumni, current and past faculty and staff, and friends of the college are eligible. Fill out the nomination form: https://forms.gle/HrA7tKsL9t2W59J16. The deadline to submit nominations is Jan. 31, 2023. 

Awards will be presented during the special 50th Anniversary Gala scheduled for Saturday, June 10, 2023, during the All-Class Medical Alumni Reunion Weekend at the Grand Hotel Resort and Spa in Point Clear, Alabama. 

Also, don't forget to join your classmates by making a page in our 50th Anniversary Book! Visit southalabama.brightcrowd.com/maa-50th. 

In Memoriam: Tony G. Waldrop, Ph.D. (1951-2022)

Dr. Tony G. Waldrop, who helped raise academic standards, elevate research and usher in a new era at USA Health as the third president of the University of South Alabama, died Saturday in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, after a long illness.

After leaving South in 2021, Waldrop, 70, returned to his native North Carolina with his wife, Julee, who became assistant dean of the Duke University School of Nursing.

“President Waldrop was a pivotal figure and determined leader for the University of South Alabama,” said Arlene Mitchell, chair pro tem of the USA Board of Trustees. “He was instrumental in the extraordinary growth at USA Health and helped us develop and mature as an institution of higher learning.”

His years at South, beginning in 2014, saw great change at the University and USA Health.

During his presidency, the University started an Honors College, developed the School of Marine and Environmental Sciences and constructed Hancock Whitney Stadium. South significantly increased retention and graduation rates, bolstered study abroad programs, added more than a dozen degrees to its offerings and launched the Pathway USA program for transfer students, increasing access to and affordability of a four-year degree.

It also completed an Onward & Upward comprehensive fundraising campaign that raised more than $160 million for the University and USA Health.

Waldrop led dynamic growth of USA Health by hiring new leadership and developing a comprehensive strategic plan focused on being the only academic health system in the region. Research and education programs were expanded, as were primary and specialty care practices across the region. A new Fanny Meisler Trauma Center at University Hospital opened, $50 million was secured from Gov. Kay Ivey to build a new College of Medicine, and work began on the Mapp Family Campus in Baldwin County and the freestanding emergency department on Hillcrest Road in west Mobile. 

 “Dr. Waldrop lifted research activity and academic standards at the University of South Alabama and set it on a course for future growth and success,” said President Jo Bonner. “His legacy lives on in each of us through this commitment to education, research, service and healthcare. We will honor him as we build on his contributions at the Flagship of the Gulf Coast.”

Waldrop was a quiet academic and disciplined administrator who often woke before dawn. He enjoyed morning walks with his wife. He refused to accept individual praise for University achievements, saying they were all group efforts.

“The goal has always been, no matter what the position I had in administration, to leave things better than the way they were,” he said in 2021. “I really do think the University is better than what it was when we came here, and that gives me satisfaction.”

At South, Waldrop was shy to speak about one of his most remarkable personal accomplishments. In 1974, as a track star at the University of North Carolina, he set a longstanding world record of 3 minutes and 55 seconds in the indoor mile. The next year, instead of preparing for the Olympic Games, he quit competitive running to focus on earning his Ph.D. in physiology.

Waldrop became a research fellow at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and then a professor of molecular and integrative physiology at the University of Illinois, where he was promoted to vice president of research and graduate studies. He returned to the University of North Carolina as vice chancellor and then became provost and executive vice president at the University of Central Florida.

In 2014, he was named the third president of the University of South Alabama, following the administration of Frederick P. Whiddon and V. Gordon Moulton. 

Dr. Sean Powers, professor and director of the School of Marine and Environmental Sciences, considers Waldrop an important president in the history of South. After Whiddon, the founder of the University, and Moulton, the builder who revitalized campus, the University gained from the leadership of an academic researcher who could recruit professors and motivate faculty to improve standards.

“We needed Tony Waldrop for that stretch,” Powers said. “He set the course for increasing the rigor of research and academic achievement here. I think that’s his claim to fame at South.”

Powers, like many on campus, had to learn from others that Waldrop had been a track star and world record holder. He became a friend of the Waldrops and often visited with them on Dauphin Island, where the Waldrops had a condominium. The couple’s partnership and shared vision immediately stood out.

“From the faculty point of view, he was very interested in everything we and our students were doing as far as research and professional development,” Powers said. “He was a traditional academic, and I think he enjoyed that part of his job the most” 

Just six months after he arrived in Mobile, Waldrop announced five strategic priorities for South: student access and success, enhancement of research and graduate education, excellence in healthcare, University-community engagement, and global engagement.

“That was a pivotal moment in our history,” said Dr. Julie Estis, president of the Faculty Senate at the time. “There was a lot of excitement and newness around that whole experience of inaugurating a new president. He laid out those five priority areas that really shaped his tenure here at South.

“We can look back and see how each area has grown. There were clear priorities.”

In addition to Hancock Whitney, construction on the University campus during Waldrop’s presidency includes the MacQueen Alumni Center, a Health Simulation Building for the healthcare professions, and the Camellia student residential hall.

Near the end of Waldrop’s administration came the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought disruption and uncertainty. Waldrop assembled a University committee that included USA Health epidemiologists and infectious disease specialists to help in the decision making process. 

“He looks at the situation through the lens of a researcher,” said Estis, the University’s COVID-19 response coordinator, in a 2011 profile on Waldrop. “He finds out all the information about whatever topic or decision it is, and he will take time to consider it, carefully weigh it, and let that inform his decision making.”

Tony Gerald Waldrop grew up in Columbus, North Carolina, south of Asheville in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. His father was an industrial machinery mechanic with a sixth-grade education, while his mother was a high school graduate and receptionist.

He was a track athlete who attended the University of North Carolina on an academic scholarship.

Waldrop became a six-time All-American, won a gold medal in the 1975 Pan American Games, and set his world record in the indoor mile. The Olympics beckoned, but Waldrop left the pressure of elite racing for the challenge of a new career.

“He had a decision to make,” recalled teammate and longtime friend Larry Widgeon. “Do I become a scientist and pursue academic exploits, or do I train for the Olympics? So, he just said, ‘I’m not going to run competitively anymore. I’m going to run for fun.’”

Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family. In addition to his wife, Waldrop is survived by the couple’s two children, Cabe and Dallas, and extended family.  

A guestbook for all who would like to send their sympathies to the Waldrop family is currently on a podium in the lobby of University Hospital until Thursday, Dec. 8. It will then move to the front desk in the lobby at Children’s & Women’s Hospital Friday through Tuesday, Dec. 13.

USA mourns the loss of Johnson Haynes Jr., M.D.

We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of Johnson Haynes Jr., M.D., a longtime, well-respected member of the University of South Alabama community. He passed away the morning of Friday, Dec. 2, 2022, at his home. 

Dr. Haynes will be remembered as an excellent clinician and scientist who was passionate about his patients, and a trailblazer who paved the way for young African Americans to follow in his footsteps and become physicians. His legacy lives on in the countless students, faculty, staff and patients he impacted throughout his tenure.

He served as a professor of internal medicine at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine, assistant dean of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, director of the USA Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center, and a pulmonologist with USA Health.

A 1980 graduate of the Whiddon College of Medicine, Dr. Haynes completed a residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in pulmonary medicine with USA Health. He joined the faculty in 1984 as the first African American clinical and basic sciences faculty member.

Since August 2001, Dr. Haynes led the USA Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center and cared for most of the adults with sickle cell disease in the southern half of Alabama. In September 2022, the USA Board of Trustees authorized the naming of the center as the Johnson Haynes Jr., M.D., Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center in recognition of his longstanding commitment to the treatment, research and education of sickle cell disease.

Throughout his career, Dr. Haynes was a champion for diversity and representation in healthcare and medical education. In 2011, he established the USA Office of Diversity and Cultural Competence, which was renamed the Office of Diversity and Inclusion in 2014. In addition to coordinating DREAM and SouthMed Prep Scholars programs, the office provides support for and recognition of student clubs to promote safe spaces, group activities and educational activities that promote diversity and inclusion. Dr. Haynes also served as the faculty sponsor for the Whiddon College of Medicine's newly established chapter of Black Men in White Coats, which aims to increase the number of Black men in the field of medicine.

Dr. Haynes served as principal investigator or collaborator on more than three dozen research grants. He also authored or co-authored countless publications, book chapters, newsletters, abstracts and reports.

His life’s work has been recognized through numerous awards, including the National Research Service Award, America’s Top Doctor, the Edith Mitchell Health Initiative Academy of Achievers Perseverance Award, and a Distinguished Alumni Award from the USA National Alumni Association and Medical Alumni Association.

Arrangements for Dr. Haynes are as follows:

Visitation:
Thursday, Dec. 8, from 1 to 7 p.m. and Friday, Dec. 9, from 8 to 9:30 a.m.
Small’s Mortuary, 950 S Broad St., Mobile, AL 

Service:
Friday, Dec. 9, at 10:30 a.m.
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 4051 Old Shell Road, Mobile, AL

Burial:
Saturday, Dec. 10
Garden Hill Cemetery, 1218 Frederick Road, Opelika, AL 36801 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Johnson Haynes Jr., M.D. Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center, 650 Clinic Drive, TRP III Ste. 1500, Mobile, AL 36688. Donations can be made online at giving.usahealthsystem.com/haynes.

Charles M. Baugh Lectureship set for Dec. 8

Karin Peterson, Ph.D.

The Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine will host the Charles M. Baugh Lecture in the Basic Medical Sciences at 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, in the Medical Sciences Building first-floor auditorium. The lecture will also be available via Zoom: https://southalabama.zoom.us/j/99901977833

The lecture, hosted by Meghan Hermance, Ph.D., is sponsored by the Department of Microbiology and Immunology.

The distinguished speaker is Karin Peterson, Ph.D., chief of the Neuroimmunology Section of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Rocky Mountain Laboratories. She will present "Pathogenesis of the California Serogroup of Orthobunyaviruses," an emerging group of mosquito-borne viruses that can invade the central nervous system and cause severe neurological disease. 

Learn more about Peterson and her research.

Pathology research seminar to focus on community-based cancer screenings

Karan Singh, Ph.D., M.S.

Karan Singh, Ph.D., M.S., professor and chair of epidemiology and biostatistics at The University of Texas at Tyler School of Medicine, is December's guest speaker for the Department of Pathology's Research Seminar Series.

He will present "Community-Based Cancer Screening: The Lessons Learned" at noon on Thursday, Dec. 8, in the Strada Patient Care Center conference room. Lunch will be served.

For more information, contact Patrick Carlisle at 251-471-7753 or pcarlisle@health.southalabama.edu.

Whiddon College of Medicine faculty recognized as 'Top Profs'

The Sally Steadman Azalea Chapter of the Mortar Board Senior Honor Society recently highlighted professors at the University of South Alabama at the 19th annual “Top Prof” ceremony. This year, Mortar Board members selected five faculty members from the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine as their top professors. 

John Thomas Goodman, a biomedical sciences major, honored Natalie Bauer, Ph.D., associate professor of pharmacology. “Dr. Bauer has taken me under her wing as my research mentor and has dedicated a ton of her time toward helping me achieve my goals,” Goodman said. “She has served as a source of advice and has truly had a huge impact on my time here at South.” 

Noel Godang, a biomedical sciences major, recognized Glen Borchert, Ph.D., associate professor of pharmacology. “As a college freshman, I remember when I first walked into his office, and he immediately invited me to tour his lab,” Godang said. “As a research mentor, Dr. Borchert has taught me both resilience and basic lab skills in both biomedical bench work and bioinformatics. I’d like to thank him immensely for guiding me and giving me feedback on my Goldwater Scholarship application, as he is always there to support and ensure every student’s academic success.”

Brianna Mitchell, a biomedical sciences major, selected Meghan Hermance, Ph.D., assistant professor of microbiology and immunology. “Dr. Hermance has been my biggest supporter in my journey here at South, especially with my decision to apply to grad school,” Mitchell said. “Thank you, Dr. Hermance, for all of the support, knowledge and experience you have given me over this past year and a half; and know that without you, I would not be where I am today.” 

Josephine Jalkh, a biomedical sciences major, acknowledged Thomas Rich, Ph.D., professor of pharmacology. “Dr. Rich acts as my service mentor, and he has really upped my confidence, whether that’s in my presentation skills or in my ability to be a researcher,” Jalkh said. “He really wants to see anybody that he interacts with succeed. I really would not be here without Dr. Rich. It’s his help and his guidance that have gotten me to this point.”

Waleed Saoud, a chemical engineering major, recognized Silas Leavesley, Ph.D., professor of pharmacology who has a dual appointment in the College of Engineering. “Dr. Leavesley is my research mentor, but he is beyond a research mentor. He has taught me many skills that translate to many aspects of my life,” Saoud said. “When I was writing my abstract, Dr. Leavesley taught me how to stay calm and collected during times of stress and that everything would work out in the end.” 

Mortar Board is a premier national honor society recognizing college seniors for outstanding achievement in scholarship, leadership and service to the campus community. The Sally Steadman Azalea Chapter of Mortar Board was founded at USA in 1969. 

Study identifies potential biomarkers for earlier detection of pancreatic cancer

Ajay Singh, Ph.D., professor of pathology at the Whiddon College of Medicine and leader of the cancer biology program at the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute, is investigating a potential tool for pancreatic cancer diagnosis. 

Scientists and physicians at the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute have identified unique and high-frequency mitochondrial DNA mutations in tiny vesicles isolated from the blood of pancreatic cancer patients. The findings could be useful in developing a non-invasive test for pancreatic cancer diagnosis.

Pancreatic cancer is a highly lethal malignancy with a rising incidence in the United States and other developed countries. According to the National Cancer Institute, pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States with a five-year survival rate for patients at just 11.5%. High mortality of pancreatic cancer is largely attributed to its late-stage diagnosis, when only limited therapeutic options are available. Hence, an earlier detection of pancreatic cancer could help save many lives or extend patients’ survival.

Santanu Dasgupta, Ph.D., assistant professor of
pathology, is a cancer researcher and one of the
principal investigators of the project.

“Mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cells, and my lab has longstanding interest in understanding how their functions get altered in cancer,” said Santanu Dasgupta, Ph.D., a cancer researcher at the MCI and one of the principal investigators of the project. “We are learning how pancreatic cancer cells alter the mitochondrial energy-generation programs by acquiring mutations in their mitochondrial DNA.”

Dasgupta, who is also an assistant professor of pathology at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama, said the goal is to develop a simple mitochondrial DNA-based blood test to detect this lethal disease early, before it spreads. “At the same time, we want to develop ways to target malfunctioning mitochondria as a therapeutic strategy for pancreatic cancer,” he said.

Ajay Singh, Ph.D., a professor of pathology and leader of the cancer biology program at the MCI, co-led the project with Dasgupta. “Mitochondria are of significant interest for developing highly sensitive biomarkers, since typically each cell in our body contains multiple mitochondria, and each mitochondrion has numerous copies of mitochondrial DNA,” he said.

“Extracellular vesicles have emerged as promising tools for cancer diagnosis in recent years,” added Singh, who has more than 20 years of experience in pancreatic cancer research. “Since these vesicles can be traced back to their cells of origin, a test based on them could be highly accurate.”

The University of South Alabama filed a provisional patent application based on these findings to protect the intellectual property rights. Dasgupta, Singh and their team are working to generate additional supporting data from larger cohorts of patients and develop an assay that could work in clinical settings. They are also investigating if their approach could be expanded to other cancers.

Contributing authors from the MCI and the Whiddon College of Medicine are Kunwar Somesh Vikramdeo, Ph.D., a postdoctoral researcher; Shashi Anand, Ph.D., a postdoctoral researcher; Mohammad Aslam Khan, Ph.D., a senior research associate; Martin Heslin, M.D., M.S.H.A., a surgical oncologist and director of the MCI; and Seema Singh, Ph.D., professor of pathology and a senior member of the cancer biology program. Moh’d Khushman, M.D., formerly a medical oncologist at the MCI and currently an associate professor of medicine in the division of hematology-oncology at Washington University in St. Louis, also contributed to this research.

The study was recently published in Scientific Reports, a peer-reviewed journal from the Springer Nature Group that publishes original research from across all areas of the natural sciences, psychology, medicine and engineering. 

Read the full article in Scientific Reports.

Sharing stories of gratitude

In this season of thankfulness, we asked alumni, medical and graduate students, faculty, staff and retirees from the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine to send us their stories of gratitude. Below are the reflections they shared.

Pat Green

“I would like to offer a story of gratitude about Patricia Green, known to everyone as Pat. She was a former program coordinator for the Department of Internal Medicine Residency Program for many years and served the University of South Alabama for 35 years. She was always everyone’s go-to person for questions and problems. I distinctly remember when I initially interviewed with John Bass, who was the chairman of the department, I mentioned that I was apprehensive about taking the job as program director, as I felt inexperienced and underqualified. John reassured me by saying, ‘Don't worry, Tom; just ask Pat.’

“And indeed, as in most things, John Bass was exactly correct. All residents and medical students knew when they asked me something, my response was always ‘let's ask Pat.’ She was also a resource for other program coordinators and would always patiently assist anyone. She was the most knowledgeable, helpful, kindest and nicest person and was instrumental for many years in helping the Department of Internal Medicine achieve its goal of educating numerous medical students and residents.

“Sadly, Pat Green died on Oct. 7, 2021. But the University of South Alabama, its medical students, former residents, and faculty are immensely grateful for Pat Green's kindness, dedication and service. Thank you, Pat Green!”
– Tom Montgomery, M.D., Class of 1981

Mark Scott

“There are so many people in Mobile to whom I owe gratitude that it would take the entire newsletter plus more to name each individually, so instead I would like to thank the USA COM for taking a risk with me. I was definitely a nontraditional student who had not found a place where she belonged until I began school at USA COM. I had changed my major several times in undergrad and even dropped out of college while trying to figure out my life. I always had a love for science and medicine but didn’t think that I was a good enough student or strong enough person to go to medical school. The day that I interviewed, Mark Scott met me on the front steps of the school, shook my hand and welcomed me as if we had been old friends. He was the first of many faculty, instructors, mentors and peers that lifted me up and guided me through the rigors of medical school. USA COM was the first experience where I felt that I truly belonged and was part of a community, and for this, I will be forever grateful.”
– Lynn Crawford, M.D., Class of 1999

Wan Lim, Ph.D.

“Dr. Wan Lim teaching Gross Anatomy to the Class of 2001 was awesome. She invited us over to bake cookies at her house, and for those students from out of town and couldn’t make it home for the holidays, she would invite them to join her family gatherings. Of note, she also advised me not to change my last name when I got married to my classmate, and I have kept my maiden name. She was more than a professor – she was family. 

“Dr. Michael Sternberg and Dr. Terry Phillip Bell, Department of Emergency Medicine, were always ready to mentor. When I was in undergraduate in the 1990s, everyone seemed so busy in the ER; but they both took the time to teach, regardless where you were in your training. Until this day, I and many other students are grateful for their dedication. They both made you feel a part of the team. 

“Dr. Sidney Crosby – Family Medicine in Jackson, Alabama – gave me great insight into rural medicine in a small town. He and his family invited me to join them for church and Sunday lunch. I appreciated him making me a part of his family while I was away on my family medicine rotation in 2000.

“My husband, Brandon Mark Peters, and I (Romsel Ang) from the Class of 2001 appreciated Dr. Glenn Wilson, Dr. Susan LeDoux, Dr. Phillip Fields, and Dr. Wan Lim teaching Gross Anatomy and all the funny jokes right before lecture. They were passionate about their teaching and were always ready to help out in the gross lab. Until this day, we’ve both used what we learned in gross anatomy in each of our specialties.” 
– Romsel Ang, M.D., and Brandon Mark Peters, M.D., Class of 2001

Benjamin Estrada, M.D.

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Dr. Benjamin Estrada. He was a fabulous teacher during medical school. More recently, his wisdom and guidance throughout the pandemic has been invaluable. Thank you, Dr. Estrada, for your advice, patience and positive attitude!” 
– Nancy Oppenheimer Wood, M.D., Class of 2007

T.J. Hundley, M.D.

“I’d like to recognize and thank Dr. T.J. Hundley, one of the associate deans in the medical school, who has helped numerous medical students walk through truly anything that comes up. From writing letters of recommendation when appropriate, to talking through things that we may be struggling with, to meeting with us to improve study strategies, Dr. Hundley has met us as students wherever we are and in whatever capacity we need help. He never complains when meetings with a student run late, as he sees it as his job to care for each of us. His commitment to advocacy, improvement of the curriculum for the sake of the students, and drive to propel each student forward has made him such a dear person in the hearts and minds of the Class of 2023.” 
– Submitted by a member of the Class of 2023

Jonathan Scammell, Ph.D.

“I came to work in the admissions office at the USA College of Medicine a little over 10 years ago. The support I've received from those in this office has been amazing. They encouraged me to go back to school and put up with my moaning and groaning about homework and tests, and they celebrated my graduation. They have allowed me to grow and progress as an employee and a person. 

“Last summer, Mark Scott, now retired, Alani Rodgers, and, most importantly, Dr. Jonathan Scammell, stood by me and saw me through one of the darkest times of my life. I lost both my mother and my brother within 45 days of one another. I was devastated. Dr. Scammell sat down in my office one day and asked me a simple question, ‘Are you talking to anyone?’ to which I replied, ‘I don't need anyone.’ His question stayed with me, though; and as the pain and darkness grew, his question grew louder until finally, I found the strength to reach out and ask for help. His five simple words saved me. And for that, I am most thankful every single day.”
– Deborah Fetherland, Director of Admissions, Whiddon College of Medicine

Ashley Turbeville

“The Whiddon College of Medicine Health Systems Grants Admin and Development Office wants to thank their executive director, Ashley Turbeville, for her mentoring and dedication. Ashley has been with the University of South Alabama since 1993. We value her tireless commitment to training and mentoring future researchers and administrative personnel. Thank you for all you do, Ashley!”
– Office of Health Systems Grants Administration and Development 

“I work in care access at the Mastin Building in Internal Medicine. I previously worked at University Hospital as a PCA on the fourth floor. I have worked in two very different environments within USA Health, and I would say the top two things I have been most thankful for are still the same. First, patients who are kind. I'm sure most of us know how it feels being on the other end of things and being the patient yourself. Second, coworkers who make you feel included. Working in healthcare can be super stressful. Having coworkers who care about you, treat you like family, help you, while never making you feel any less of a person/employee – it means the world. So I would say I am very thankful for the people out there with kind hearts, on both sides of healthcare!”
– Ashlan Broadus, Care Access, Department of Internal Medicine

Study assesses clinical impact of targeted genomic profiling

Christian Manganti, a third-year medical student, and Thuy Phung, M.D., Ph.D., associate professor of pathology, display their poster describing the clinical impact of targeted genomic profiling. 

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology is key to identifying gene mutations important in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics. Representatives from the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine and the School of Computing at the University of South Alabama presented their clinical research findings on NGS at the Association for Molecular Pathology international annual meeting, held Nov. 1-5 in Phoenix, Arizona.

Christian Manganti, a third-year medical student, conducted research for the project, titled “Clinical Impact of Targeted Genomic Profiling,” during the Medical Student Summer Research Program in 2021. He completed the work in the Molecular Pathology Laboratory under the direction of Thuy Phung, M.D., Ph.D., associate professor of pathology at the Whiddon College of Medicine and director of molecular genetic pathology and dermatopathology at USA Health. 

Next-generation sequencing assays for solid tumors range from targeted genomic profiling (TGP), which assesses dozens of genes with actionable clinical utility, to comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP), which evaluates hundreds to thousands of genes.

“NGS truly is the future of medicine,” Manganti said. “Research continues to move towards identifying genetic associations with all types of disease states, even obesity.” 

However, genetic testing can be costly for patients and the healthcare system. “That’s where targeted genomic profiling comes in; it’s a very efficient solution,” he said. “TGP is cost-effective, and our data supports that utilizing TGP in cancer patients provides important information that’s pertinent to patient care.”

The study found that TGP covers 96% of actionable mutations and provides significant coverage (68%) of clinical-trial-eligible pathogenic variants identified by CGP. These findings indicate significant clinical impact of TGP with respect to identifying biomarkers for targeted therapy and clinical trials. Focused, targeted gene profiling has important clinical utility in the setting of small tissue specimens, cost effectiveness and limited healthcare resources, the study concluded. 

Thuy Phung, M.D., Ph.D., far right, spoke at a corporate

workshop during the Association for Molecular Pathology

annual meeting.

Phung was a featured speaker in a corporate workshop on “Improving Access to Precision Oncology Through In-House Plasma Biopsy Testing,” in which she discussed the establishment of molecular cancer testing at USA Health and how in-house testing can lead to significant improvement in the quality of patient care. She was also invited to serve on several key committees for the Association for Molecular Pathology, and commenced her committee assignments at the association’s annual meeting. 

“It is an honor to represent the University of South Alabama and the Department of Pathology at an international molecular pathology conference to showcase what we are doing in Mobile to improve patient care locally, and to raise awareness of efficient and cost-effective means to improve patient access to lifesaving molecular testing,” she said. 

Manganti said he is grateful to Phung, the laboratory staff and the pathology department for sponsoring the project. “This is a completely new avenue in medicine that isn’t quite covered in detail yet in our pre-clerkship years,” he said. “Much of my learning during that summer occurred simply by interacting with my colleagues every day, and I’m grateful that they were so hospitable to me and open to answering any questions I had.”  

Collaborators on the interdisciplinary project included Kelly Hebert, Ph.D., lead molecular medical scientist; Mohan Kasukurthi, a doctoral candidate in computer science; and Jingshan Huang, Ph.D., professor of computer science.

AMP is the leading organization in the field of molecular diagnostics. The annual meeting, which attracts about 2,000 attendees from all over the world, explores how cutting-edge technology and developments in molecular testing and diagnostics impact patient care. The meeting consisted of three days of scientific sessions on molecular diagnostics with 200 exhibiting companies, a corporate workshop, and educational and networking opportunities.