Bruder honored for significant contributions to cardiovascular research

Thiago Bruder, Ph.D., focuses his research on the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the development and progression of cardiovascular disease.

By Lindsay Hughes

Thiago Bruder, Ph.D., an assistant professor of physiology and cell biology at the Whiddon College of Medicine, recently received the Harry Goldblatt Award for New Investigators from the American Heart Association (AHA). The prestigious award, sponsored by the Council on Hypertension, recognizes an early-career independent investigator who has significantly contributed to the understanding of the causes of hypertension and related cardiovascular disease. 

“The award is deeply important for my career, as it provides national and international recognition of the research we are conducting on vascular biology and blood pressure regulation,” Bruder said. “It not only acknowledges the impact of our current findings but also positions our lab as a contributor to shaping the future of hypertension research.” 

“On a personal level,” Bruder added, “being honored early in my independent career enhances visibility within the cardiovascular community, strengthens opportunities for collaboration, and supports the competitiveness of future funding applications. Most importantly, it reinforces my commitment to mentoring the next generation of scientists, giving me the opportunity to inspire trainees in the same way I was once inspired by the pioneers of this field.”

Thiago Bruder, Ph.D., presents at the

AHA Hypertension Scientific Sessions.

Bruder also had the opportunity to present a lecture during the AHA’s Hypertension Scientific Sessions, held in Baltimore in early September. In his lecture, he shared how he began his career in a cardiovascular pharmacology and physiology research lab and expressed gratitude to the mentors who have guided him since his undergraduate studies in Brazil. He then presented some of his lab’s published and unpublished findings on endothelial biology and blood pressure regulation.

“This lecture was a truly unique opportunity,” Bruder said, “as many of the leading cardiovascular scientists I have long admired — and whose manuscripts I studied as a graduate student — were in the audience.” 

The award is named after Harry Goldblatt, M.D., a pathologist who established the first experimental model of hypertension in 1934. This model laid the foundation for much of today’s research in blood pressure regulation. “To be honored in his name is truly priceless,” Bruder said.

Troy Stevens, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Physiology and Cell Biology at the Whiddon College of Medicine and director of the USA Center for Lung Biology, was among those who nominated Bruder for the award.

In addition to Stevens, nominators were Bruder’s postdoctoral mentor Eric Belin de Chantemele, D.Sc., Regents Professor at Augusta University; and Rhian Touyz, MBBCh, Ph.D., executive director and chief scientific officer of the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre in Montreal, Canada.

“I am deeply grateful to be named the 2025 Harry Goldblatt Award recipient and especially thankful to my lab members — both current and former trainees — whose dedication, creativity, and hard work have been essential to this recognition.”

Bruder, who is a Fellow of the American Heart Association, joined the Whiddon College of Medicine faculty in 2024. His lab is dedicated to investigating the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the development and progression of cardiovascular disease, as well as discovering both therapeutic and non-therapeutic approaches to mitigate its effects. 

He earned a Ph.D. in pharmacology from the University of São Paulo in Brazil. He completed postdoctoral research in physiology at Augusta University in Augusta, Georgia. 

Hospitalist Van Court joins internal medicine faculty

Blake Van Court, M.D.

By Milena Mata

USA Health recently welcomed Blake Van Court, M.D., a board-certified hospitalist who treats patients at University Hospital. 

As a native of south Louisiana, Van Court said he is excited to return to the Gulf Coast.  

“I chose hospital medicine because it is the perfect union of human physiology and patient-centered care,” Van Court said. “The best part of being a hospitalist is being able to take care of your local community during their most vulnerable times and knowing that you're making a difference in the lives of people around you.”

Van Court will also serve as an assistant professor of internal medicine at the Whiddon College of Medicine. He has collaborated on numerous research publications and is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. 

“Academic medicine allows me to give back to the newest generation of future physicians,” he said. 

Van Court said the ever-evolving nature of medicine pushes him to stay updated on new technologies and advances in medicine, which in turn helps his trainees become great physicians. “To see your trainees grow into excellent physicians is the most satisfying reward a teacher can have,” he said.  

Van Court earned his medical degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. He completed residency training in internal medicine at Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.  

Class of 2029 elects top officers and M1 representatives

Class of 2029 officers and representatives

By Lindsay Hughes

The Whiddon College of Medicine Class of 2029 recently elected its leaders, choosing classmates who are committed to building community, amplifying student voices, and supporting one another through the challenges ahead.

Caroline Lloyd, president

As president of the class, Caroline Lloyd hopes to be both a strong advocate and a steady source of encouragement for her classmates.

“I will work with the officer team to ensure that the voices of each student are heard, and to ensure that each student remains educated on and excited about all the goings-on and the future of the Whiddon COM,” Lloyd said. “I will also do my best to foster relationships among classmates that go deeper than being study buddies; I want each of my classmates to feel they have someone to turn to for whatever they need, whether that be encouragement, support, or just someone to go on a walk with.” 

She knows firsthand how important those connections are. “Medical school is so hard, and I know that real human friendships are necessary to maintain wellness during such a trying time,” she said.

Lloyd’s decision to run for office was inspired by the profound impact her peers have had on her and the friendships she's built in such a short time.

“Those relationships will surely continue to support me through the rest of my medical education and career,” she said. “I decided to step into a leadership role so that I can be an active part of ensuring that camaraderie continues to grow and flourish for the benefit of each student.”

That sense of belonging is also what drew Lloyd to Whiddon COM in the first place. She recalls feeling the college’s commitment to student success from her first interview.

“Each faculty member is deeply invested in the success of each student, and that is displayed in every lecture, lab session, and even in every passing conversation in the hallway,” she said. “I truly do feel that the Whiddon COM is a family that I have been welcomed into with open arms.”

Maddie Katona, vice president

For Maddie Katona, leadership begins with creating an environment where her classmates feel supported, encouraged and valued. As vice president, Katona hopes to help her peers find confidence in their abilities while building resilience for the challenges of medical school.

“I want our classmates to feel appreciated for their talents, motivated to embrace challenges, and confident to help others,” Katona said. “I understand that each person has unique and essential attributes that help to enrich Whiddon COM’s values and goals, so I hope that Caroline and I can help cheer on our classmates and help them build the confidence and resilience they need to pursue their purpose in medicine.”

Katona was inspired to pursue a leadership role after her sister encouraged her to take the leap. As the oldest sibling, she naturally gravitates toward helping others grow, whether offering advice, motivating a team, or celebrating someone’s strengths. 

Her experiences leading a collegiate athletic team reinforced that calling. “It was incredibly rewarding to be someone my teammates trusted to support and inspire them in their personal, academic and athletic endeavors,” she said. “That’s the type of person I hope to be for my medical school class and for my president.”

Katona’s decision to attend Whiddon COM was shaped by her interviews with faculty, which showed her how deeply the school values its students. Conversations with John Hinton, M.D., assistant professor of neurology, ranged from cartography and ancient manuscripts to stargazing and early American exploration. Natalie Bauer, Ph.D., assistant dean for admissions and associate professor of pharmacology, asked thoughtful questions about family, books and volunteer experiences.

“I could tell that the faculty at South genuinely cares about their students, wants to help them explore their interests, and wants to see them succeed,” Katona said. “I wanted to be a part of an environment like that.”

Class of 2029 officers and M1 representatives:

• President: Caroline Lloyd 
• Vice President: Madeleine “Maddie” Katona
• Secretary: Madi Webb
• Treasurer: Seth Stewart
• SGA Liaison: Caroline Weisenfeld
• Intramural Chairs: Will Beams, Ben Estrada and Miles Hunt
• Social Chairs: David Blackburn, Caley Caldwell and Cade Meyers
• Community Service Chairs: Nate Fehrmann and Kaleigh Miller
• Internet Technical Officer: Brayan Fortunato
• Wellness Officers: Lauren Assaf, Jayne Freeman, Peyton Jacobs and Anna Grace Johnson
• Honor Council: Logan Brewer, Andrew Monk, Julian Smith and Mary Liz Hill
• Merchandise Chair: Odalys Ordonez Medina
• Review of Systems Yearbook Editor: Melanie Calderon Bernuy

Graduate student receives competitive AHA travel award, presents research on hypertension

Tyler Beling and Thiago Bruder, Ph.D.

By Lindsay Hughes

Tyler Beling, a second-year student in the Whiddon College of Medicine’s Basic Medical Sciences Graduate Program, recently received a Hypertension New Investigator Travel Award from the American Heart Association (AHA). 

Beling’s submitted abstract received one of the highest scores from the Council on Hypertension, earning her not only the highly competitive travel award but also an invitation to present her work at the AHA’s Hypertension Scientific Sessions, held in Baltimore in early September.

Her study demonstrated that endothelial cells produce high levels of progranulin — a molecule traditionally linked to adipose tissue and the central nervous system — which helps protect the vasculature and maintain blood pressure.

“The conference was such a valuable experience,” she said, “full of exciting science, insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and personal growth. It’s an experience I’ll always treasure.”

Beling, who is in the graduate program’s Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Biology track, works in the lab with faculty mentor Thiago Bruder, Ph.D., an assistant professor of physiology and cell biology. 

“At this stage of her career, this represents a truly exceptional achievement,” Bruder said. “She delivered an outstanding presentation, showcasing not only her strong command of the science but also her skills as an articulate and confident speaker. Tyler responded thoughtfully and accurately to all questions from colleagues, leaving an excellent impression. Following her talk, I received many positive comments from peers who admired her control of both the research and her delivery.”

Receiving the award “was such a joyful moment,” Beling said. “At first I felt pure excitement, quickly followed by a deep sense of fulfillment that the work we're doing is both valuable and being recognized. You always hope your efforts are meaningful, but having it acknowledged with an award makes it even sweeter. I was, and still am, truly grateful.”

Beling said it was an honor to share the lab’s work with leaders in the field of cardiovascular research, and she is appreciative of the lab team’s support, especially her mentor, Bruder.  

“I’ve learned so much in such a short time, and it’s truly an environment that encourages growth with continuous forward momentum,” she said. “I’m really grateful that Dr. Bruder encouraged me, as well as my lab mates, to take this opportunity head on.”

Originally from South Africa, Beling earned a bachelor's degree in quantity surveying from the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein, South Africa, and a Master of Science in kinesiology from Boise State University in Boise, Idaho.

Lunch & Learn session to focus on promotion and tenure

The Office of Faculty Affairs and Faculty Development invites Whiddon College of Medicine faculty to a Lunch & Learn session on “Promotion & Tenure.” 

The session is set for Wednesday, Oct. 1, from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Strada Patient Care Center first-floor conference room. 

Email Alice Nolen at anolen@southalabama.edu to sign up for this session.

MATE Act substance use disorder training set for Oct. 10

The USA Office of Continuing Medical Education will host the MATE Act training on substance use disorder on Oct. 10 at 11:30 a.m. at the USA Office of CME located at 650 Clinic Drive, Suite 1100. 

The Medication Access and Training Expansion (MATE) Act requires physicians, including residents and fellows, and other healthcare professionals who prescribe controlled substances, to complete a one-time training on the treatment and management of patients with opioid or other substance use disorders.   

The Oct. 10 training will cover opioid prescribing trends in Alabama, evidence-based prescribing practices, and ways to recognize signs of substance misuse. The event is designed for healthcare providers interested in expanding their knowledge and improving patient care. 

Seats for the class are limited, and early registration is encouraged. To register or download the event brochure, visit: https://bit.ly/USAMATE25. 

For more information, contact the USA Office of CME at cme@southalabama.edu. 

Whiddon COM announces Class of 2026 Aequitas Health Medical Honor Society Fellows

The Whiddon College of Medicine has announced the selection of eight exceptional medical students from the Class of 2026 as Fellows of the Aequitas Health Medical Honor Society. These individuals have demonstrated a deep and sustained commitment to promoting optimal health for all through leadership, community engagement, research, and service throughout their medical education.

Aequitas Health is a national honor society formed in 2021 in response to a collective awareness of the deep-rooted health inequities highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Its mission is to recognize and support future physicians who actively work to eliminate health inequities in all forms — across clinical care, community engagement, and advocacy.

Fellows inducted into the Whiddon College of Medicine chapter exemplify these values through a record of impact and dedication to vulnerable populations in Alabama and beyond.

Class of 2026 Fellows

• Qays Aljabi
• Ben Cockrell
• Isabella Dinelli
• Mary Faragalla
• Ryan Ford
• Chandler Hinson
• Allen Perkins
• Brandon Schonour

Addressing Health Disparities Through Action

The newly inducted Fellows have made meaningful contributions to health equity through a diverse array of projects, leadership roles, and community initiatives. Their efforts include:

• Revitalizing access to vision screening services in underserved communities through the FocusFirst program, restoring local infrastructure for early diagnosis of preventable vision impairment in children.
• Leading and expanding the Student-Run Free Clinic, providing preventive screenings, chronic disease education, and integrated care coordination for unhoused and uninsured individuals, including targeted efforts in cancer detection, mental health, and audiologic assessment.
• Conducting impactful research on social determinants of health, including projects examining trauma recovery, misdiagnosis and access gaps in autoimmune disease, geographic disparities in care delivery, and culturally informed palliative care.
• Launching health promotion initiatives in rural and tribal communities, such as the development of nature trails to encourage physical activity, telehealth facilities for elders, and health education outreach for Native American youth and families.
• Advancing health literacy through structured education programs targeting diabetes, heart disease, and medication safety — empowering patients to manage chronic conditions more effectively.
• Engaging in health disparities curriculum reform and peer mentorship, ensuring inclusive learning environments for medical trainees and supporting the development of a more representative healthcare workforce.
• Participating in interprofessional service-learning via the AHEC Scholars Program, contributing over 80 hours of training and community outreach focused on Alabama’s medically underserved populations.

As one of their first official activities as Fellows, several of the newly inducted members participated in a panel discussion on servant leadership with the first-year medical students. This activity marked a meaningful moment of inter-class engagement and demonstrated the Fellows’ commitment to mentoring and modeling equity-driven leadership for the next generation of physicians.

“These students embody the mission of Aequitas Health and reflect the Whiddon College of Medicine’s values of service, leadership, and a commitment to advancing health for all,” said Ashley Williams Hogue, M.D., associate professor of surgery and president of the Whiddon COM Chapter of Health Aequitas. 

“We are proud to celebrate their achievements and look forward to the continued impact they will have in their careers as equity-minded physician leaders, said Franklin Trimm, M.D., associate dean of health advancement.

USA and Vanderbilt lead national conversation on neurosurgery match criteria

Members of the neurosurgery team and contributors to the research project, from left, are Ursula Hummel, P.A.; Jai Thakur, M.D.; Garrett Dyess; and Adnan Shahid, M.D.

By Jessica Jones

A team of medical students and faculty from the Whiddon College of Medicine, in collaboration with Vanderbilt University, published the first-of-its-kind qualitative and survey-based study capturing neurosurgery residency program directors’ perspectives on evaluating applicant research productivity.

The study was recently published in Cureus, a part of Springer Nature, and selected for a podium presentation at the upcoming Congress of Neurological Surgeons Annual Meeting, the largest neurosurgery conference in the world, to be held in Los Angeles in October. The outcome sheds new light on how research is weighed in the increasingly competitive residency selection process. 

Neurosurgery applicants reported record-high research output in 2024, averaging 37.4 abstracts, presentations, and publications per applicant. This surge has raised concerns about an “arms race” in research productivity, particularly in the wake of the United States Medical Licensing Step 1 Exam (USMLE) transitioning to pass/fail scoring rather than identified rankings. 

“Our findings reveal that while research is an important marker of dedication and potential, program directors place greater value on high-quality, meaningful work over sheer volume,” said Garrett Dyess, a second-year medical student at the Whiddon College of Medicine and lead author of the study. “They also consider institutional access to research opportunities, offering some reassurance for students from smaller programs.” 

The study explored program directors’ views on quality versus quantity, basic science versus clinical research, and how research is weighed before and after residency interviews. Perspectives varied on whether the current competitive climate is harmful and on potential reforms, such as capping research submissions. 

“This project represents an outstanding collaboration between medical students and faculty across institutions,” said David Williams, Ph.D., MPA, assistant dean for institutional and academic success at the Whiddon College of Medicine, who led the study’s qualitative methodology. “By increasing transparency, we hope to reduce stress and help future applicants focus on meaningful contributions rather than raw numbers.” 

Key contributors to the project include Jai Thakur, M.D., chief of minimally invasive cranial and skull base neurosurgery at USA Health and director of neurosurgery education at USA; Lola Chambless, M.D., FAANS, neurosurgery residency program director and professor of neurological surgery at Vanderbilt University and chair of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons Resident Committee; Williams; Adnan Shahid, M.D., former skull base fellow at USA Health and current pediatric neurosurgery fellow at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB); Danner Butler, M.D, former USA medical student and current UAB neurosurgery resident; Maxon Basset, fourth-year medical student at USA; Dyess; and Matthew Tao, second-year medical student at USA. 

The full study is published in Cureus and available online at cureus.com. 

EDGE for Success expands with new ambassadors and USA Health launch

Ambassadors and co-leads of EDGE for Success: Christina Murphree; Amanda Arnold, M.S., RDN, LD; Melisa Pierce, Ed.D., MPA; Marcina Lang, MPA; and Domenico Spadafora, Ph.D.

The Whiddon College of Medicine’s EDGE for Success program is entering its next cycle with exciting momentum, a new cohort of mentors, and a new home at USA Health. Building on the success of the inaugural series, which showed measurable growth in leadership and self-efficacy across every area assessed, EDGE continues to grow as both a program and a community.

Three new EDGE Ambassadors — Brittany Brown, MSN, RN, NE-BC; Christina Murphree; and Domenico Spadafora, Ph.D. — will join returning co-leads Marcina Lang, MPA; Amanda Arnold, M.S., RDN, LD; and program designer Melisa Pierce, Ed.D., MPA, as mentors in this second cycle. Notably, the new ambassadors were participants in the first EDGE cohort, and their transition to mentoring is a powerful reflection of the program’s core vision: Leadership is not about titles; it’s about growth, impact, and lifting others as you climb.

What EDGE Covers

EDGE for Success is a six-session interactive program designed to help staff build leadership skills, enhance communication, and strengthen collaboration — regardless of formal role or title. Through guided discussion, hands-on practice, and mentorship, participants will:

• Explore personal leadership values and emotional intelligence.
• Build practical skills in communication, feedback, and collaboration.
• Learn strategies for productivity, including the integration of AI tools.
• Cultivate resilience and reflective practices for continuous growth.
• Develop a personal brand and professional presence.
• Conclude with a reflection and recognition session to celebrate growth.

The program blends evidence-based readings, small group interaction, and structured mentorship, providing participants not only with knowledge but also with space to apply, practice, and reflect.

“EDGE was created with a simple belief: leadership is not about position; it’s about practice,” Pierce said. “Seeing participants grow in confidence, skills, and voice — and now watching mentees step into the role of mentors — has been incredibly rewarding. This next cycle will continue to build on that foundation as we expand to USA Health.”

Details and Registration

The next cycle begins with orientation on Sept. 24, followed by six sessions held from 11 a.m. to noon in the USA Health Clinical Trials Training Room. Interested staff can register at this link.

Senior medical students named to Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society

Fifteen medical students from the Whiddon College of Medicine Class of 2026 have been elected to the Beta Chapter of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. 

Alpha Omega Alpha, founded in 1902, is the national medical honor society. Election to the society is an honor signifying a lasting commitment to professionalism, leadership, scholarship, research and community service. A lifelong honor, membership in the society confers recognition for a physician's dedication to the profession and art of healing.

The new members are as follows:

• Qays Aljabi
• Noah Baker
• Olivia Brookins
• Madelyn Campbell
• Caroline Clutton
• Corinne Gautreaux
• Madison Hogans
• Caroline Howell
• Benjamin Loftis
• Samuel Motz
• Allen Perkins
• Richard Preus
• Grace Sullivan
• Brooke Tarrant
• Macy Wright

Learn more about Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society.

Staff development series to explore ethical challenges

The Whiddon College of Medicine's Spark & Start Staff Development Series continues this fall. This is a quarterly staff development session designed to spark participants' attention and enable them to get started using new or underused skills and technology.

Peyton McElroy, Ph.D., assistant professor of medical education, and Leesha Coleman, MLIS, assistant librarian at the Baugh Biomedical Library, will facilitate an interactive session exploring everyday ethical challenges in work and life through the lens of medical humanities, art, literature, and creative activities. This professional development opportunity offers a chance to step away from the daily routine, engage in thought-provoking exercises, and reflect on life’s big — and small — questions in a meaningful and enjoyable way.

The session will be held Oct. 15 from 2 to 3 p.m. in the Medical Sciences Building third-floor multipurpose room. The Zoom link will be shared with participants closer to the event. 

RSVP by Oct. 3: https://forms.gle/W4EuMSTHggLCocSM7

Medical student's art piece featured on Physiatry in Motion cover

Isabella Dinelli holds a copy of Physiatry in Motion featuring her artwork on the cover.

A medical student's artwork is featured on the cover of the Association of Academic Physiatrists (AAP) Physiatry in Motion's summer 2025 issue. Inspired by a hike in a botanical garden in the rain, fourth-year medical student Isabella Dinelli created the art piece titled “Across” in Procreate. 

Physical medicine and rehabilitation, or physiatry, is a medical specialty focused on restoring function and improving quality of life for patients with injuries or illnesses affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints or muscles. 

The first page of the magazine includes Dinelli's description of the piece: “It reflects the idea that sometimes a single step in the rehabilitation journey can feel as impossible as walking on water. With resilience, we conquer what we once thought was beyond our reach and accomplish things we once thought were impossible. The work symbolizes perseverance, forward motion, and accomplishing the seemingly impossible, merging the serenity of nature with the determination at the heart of rehabilitation medicine.”

Dinelli, who is president of the Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Interest Group, is applying to physical medicine and rehabilitation residency programs. 

The AAP's mission is to empower academic physiatrists to advance the science of physical medicine and rehabilitation, educate leaders of the future, and champion physiatry to transform healthcare. Physiatry in Motion is a quarterly publication created by the AAP’s Resident/Fellow Council.

USA celebrates Whiddon College of Medicine construction milestone

Medical students from the Class of 2028 sign the beam, which will leave a lasting imprint hidden in the framework of the new Whiddon College of Medicine building.

Representatives from USA and Mobile gather for the

beam signing ceremony. 

The University of South Alabama is one step closer to making the new medical education and research building a reality. 

On Sept. 4, the Whiddon College of Medicine marked an exciting milestone with a beam signing ceremony, a longstanding construction tradition that celebrates the placement of the final structural steel beam at the highest point of the building. 

The beam was signed by many who represent the heart of this project, including second-year medical students who will be the first graduating class to learn and grow in the new building.

“We will provide the next generation of high-quality physicians and cutting-edge research to improve the lives of Alabamians,” said John V. Marymont, M.D., MBA, dean of the Whiddon College of Medicine and vice president for medical affairs. “There is no better investment to meet these growing needs of our state than to invest in our own people and our own University.”

Learn more about the latest progress and the construction goals ahead.

View more photos from the event on Flickr.

Join us for Walk with a Doc

Looking for a fun, healthy way to kick off your weekend? Join the next Walk with a Doc event on Saturday, Sept. 13, at 8:30 a.m. at the University of South Alabama Student Recreation Center. 

This month, Luke Mueller, D.O., medical director of the Stanton Road Clinic and assistant professor of internal medicine, will give a brief talk on routine health screenings you can expect during a primary care visit. After the discussion, you’ll enjoy a relaxed group walk, perfect for getting active and connecting with others. 

When you arrive, check in at the front desk. You’ll be directed to the classroom where participants will gather before the walk begins. 

This event is free and open to all, so feel free to bring along family, friends, and coworkers. For more information about this and future Walk with a Doc events, visit the Walk with a Doc webpage. 

Student scientists earn top honors at Infectious Diseases and Host Defense Research Symposium

From left, Kevin Macaluso, Ph.D.; Nam Suwanbongkot; Killian Brewer; Allyson Shea, Ph.D.; Meagan Taylor; and Shovon Lal Sarkar.

Nam Suwanbongkot and Christopher

Davies, Ph.D.

Nam Suwanbongkot, a Ph.D. candidate in the Basic Medical Sciences Graduate Program at the Whiddon College of Medicine, received the Outstanding Young Scientist Award at the 2025 Infectious Diseases and Host Defense (IDHD) Research Symposium held in August at the University of South Alabama.   

The award honors a graduate student who demonstrates academic excellence, leadership, and service to the discipline.  

Basic medical sciences Ph.D. candidate Killian Brewer was also recognized, earning the Best Presentation Award for his research on lung pathology in lab models.  

The symposium featured nine trainee research presentations that examined biological and immunological aspects of disease. Topics ranged from immune system responses to tick-borne infections to mechanisms of cytokine release in antibody therapies for cancer.  

The symposium is designed to give students valuable conference-style presentation experience while fostering collaboration and feedback from outside perspectives.  

Student presentations included:  

• 

  Kevin Macaluso, Ph.D., and Killian Brewer

  Olu Adesunloro: “Importance of manganese uptake in uropathogenic Escherichia coli CFT073 during urinary tract infection”  
• Killian Brewer: “Neutrophil hyperresponsiveness contributes to lung pathology in STAT3V463Δ mice” 
• Manley Hicks: “Optimizing macrophage phagocytosis in monoclonal antibody therapies”
• Hoa Tran: “Pseudomonas aeruginosa Type III secretion system effector ExoU activates caspase-1, thereby triggering programmed cell death in lung endothelial cells”  
• Sarah Macon-Foley: “Tick co-feeding transmission of tick-borne flaviviruses: Developing a working model system”  
• Brianna Mitchell: “Mechanisms of cytokine release by monoclonal antibody therapies”  
• Meagan Taylor: “Using primary human dermal fibroblasts as an in vitro model of chikungunya virus infection at the vector-virus-host interface”  
• Shovon Lal Sarkar: “Characterization of Amblyomma maculatum saliva microRNAs and their role in Rickettsia transmission”  
• Nam Suwanbongkot: “Cutaneous response to rickettsial infection via a single infected tick feeding event”  

Keynote speaker Kathryn Patras, Ph.D., of the Baylor College of Medicine, delivered a lecture titled “The path to uncovering an immune conversation that predicts preterm birth,” sharing insights from her scientific research and career path.  

Students including Suwanbongkot, Brewer, Shovon Lal Sarkar and Meagan Taylor, served on the 2025 symposium planning committee. The event was chaired and moderated by Allyson Shea, Ph.D., an assistant professor of microbiology and immunology.  

USA Health Pediatrics administers first infusion to prevent Type 1 diabetes progression in 8-year-old patient

The team celebrated after the patient finished

his 14-day treatment. 

Because of a mother’s deep concern for her child and a physician’s willingness to listen, a little boy may be able to postpone treatment for Type 1 diabetes – including daily needle sticks and strict food restrictions – for several years.   

After a series of tests revealed that a patient was a candidate for a new treatment, pediatric endocrinologists at USA Health successfully administered its first Teplizumab infusion to the patient in Mobile, marking a milestone in the fight against Type 1 diabetes.  

The treatment, completed in late July after a 14-day course, is designed to delay the onset of symptomatic stage 3 Type 1 diabetes by as much as two years.  

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D), formerly called juvenile diabetes, is an autoimmune disorder that leads to loss of the pancreas's ability to produce insulin, a critical hormone for the body's glucose use. Children with symptomatic T1D present with health conditions including hyperglycemia, polyuria, and polydipsia, requiring the initiation of insulin replacement therapy.   

“This is the first available disease-modifying therapy available for these patients and presents as a light of hope to currently delay – but maybe one day potentially cure – T1D,” said Melissa Perez-Garcia, M.D., a pediatric endocrinologist and assistant professor of pediatrics at USA Health who worked with the patient and his family. The patient treated at USA Health is the health system’s first pediatric patient to receive the therapy.   

After seeking care in other facilities in the region, the patient’s family came to see Perez-Garcia for a third opinion. The pediatric endocrinologist sat with the mother and took a detailed history, asking questions that revealed her son could have Type 1 diabetes. Tests confirmed her suspicion.  

Fortunately, when detected early enough, the disease can be delayed with treatment. 

In 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Teplizumab as the first therapy shown to delay the progression to symptomatic T1D. Delaying the onset of the disease could have a profound impact on a child’s quality of life, allowing them more years free from the burden of frequent injections and glucose monitoring.  

“This is an exciting moment for our pediatric endocrine team,” said Benjamin Estrada, M.D., interim chair of pediatrics, professor of pediatrics, and assistant dean for medical education at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at USA. “By offering this therapy, we hope to delay the need for insulin treatment and give our patient and his family more time before facing the daily challenges of Type 1 diabetes.”  

After pre-treatment testing, the treatment required a daily IV infusion for 14 days, which was administered in the pediatric infusion center at USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital.  

“We are filled with optimism that this sweet 8-year-old boy will be a responder to the medication,” Perez-Garcia said, “and won’t have to think about insulin injections or blood glucose checks for at least two more years.”    

USA Lions Eye Research Institute marks 35 years of contributions to local basic science

Members of the USA chapter of the Lions Eye Research Institute gather for a special program at the Whiddon College of Medicine.

By Casandra Andrews  

To recognize the contributions of the Alabama District 34C Lions Clubs, part of the USA Lions Eye Research Institute (LERI), a special program was held in August at the Whiddon College of Medicine.  

Founded in 1990, LERI marks 35 years of support in 2025 for USA scientists and researchers seeking to better understand the causes of — and ultimately end — preventable blindness. Local Lions Club members gathered for lunch and a tour of the instrumentation they helped purchase through donations and grants from the Lions International Foundation.   

The total amount of contributions from the Lions Eye Research Board, comprising members from more than 30 Lions Clubs in District 34C, is now more than $1.3 million, said Robert A. Barrington, Ph.D., an associate professor of microbiology and immunology at the Whiddon College of Medicine, and a Lions Club member.   

“We are truly grateful for the generous support from Lions Club members that spans more than three decades now,” Barrington said. “It continues to be a remarkable example of how civic-minded individuals can have a profound impact on basic science research.”  

During the program, Barrington talked about the history of LERI and of the vision scientists supported by the donations and their eye research, including an example of a current project that highlights how gamma delta T cells provide protection against pathology and blindness caused by corneal Herpes Simplex virus 1 infection.  

Barrington’s lab studies infectious blindness caused by herpes virus, the leading cause of infectious blindness in the developed world. He also serves as the director of the Office of Research Education & Training, as scientific director of the Flow Cytometry Laboratory, and a member of the Center for Lung Biology.  

Present at the meeting was LERI founder Leonard Rich, M.D., a Lions Club member and local ophthalmologist. Along with fellow member Joe Bitzer, Barrington said, the two rallied District 34C Lions to respond to Lions Clubs International's SIGHT FIRST campaign to eradicate preventable blindness by forming LERI, a group with a unique vision to fund basic science eye research to drive medical advances for eye diseases.  

With more than 1.4 million members in some 49,000 U.S. and international groups, Lions Clubs International and Lions Clubs International Foundation take on some of the greatest challenges facing local communities and the world through service and grants.   

Pediatric hospitalist joins Whiddon COM faculty

Rakesh Das, M.D.

By Milena Mata 

To better meet the healthcare needs of sick and injured children, Rakesh Das, M.D., has joined USA Health as a pediatric hospitalist at USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital and USA Health Providence Hospital. 

He joins a team of 14 pediatricians and five advanced practice providers who exclusively care for children in USA Health hospitals. 

Das said his passion for pediatrics emerged while caring for patients in his community after earning a medical degree. Growing up in a rural village in Nepal, he noticed the challenges children can experience when healthcare is limited. 

“I am passionate about advocating for children, as they are often without a voice of their own,” Das said. “Working with children and their families brings me immense fulfillment and continues to fuel my passion for pediatrics. Every child has a unique story and helping them grow healthier and stronger is deeply rewarding.” 

Das earned his medical degree at Tribhuvan University, a medical school in Nepal, where he attended on a full scholarship. He served as a medical doctor in Nepal, providing care in marginalized communities and leading immunization initiatives. 

Later, he moved to New York to complete his pediatric residency at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx, where he specialized in complex neonatal cases. During his time there, Das also rotated in pediatric oncology and pediatric cardiology, gaining a broader understanding of those fields. His research efforts have focused on the association between congenital heart disease and gestational diabetes. 

Das said he appreciates that USA Health allows him to experience both patient care and collaborative teaching and research. As an assistant professor of pediatrics at the Whiddon College of Medicine, Das values sharing knowledge and gaining new perspectives from his students. He said teamwork and collaboration in pediatric medicine ensure the best outcomes for patients. 

“The academic setting fosters collaboration and innovation, giving me the chance to help advance pediatric care,” Das said. “For me, it is not just about making a difference locally but contributing to a broader impact globally.” 

Das is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Society of International Medical Graduates. He is also the author of multiple published research articles. 

“I am very excited to bring my experiences, skills, and passion for teaching to USA Health,” he said, “and I look forward to serving children and families while growing together with this amazing team.” 

USA Health pediatric pulmonology expands with addition of Choudhary

Saroj Choudhary, M.D.

By Milena Mata  

Fellowship-trained pediatric pulmonologist Saroj Choudhary, M.D., recently joined the medical staff at USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital and is accepting new patients at the Strada Patient Care Center.   

“As a pediatric pulmonologist, I was drawn to this field by a deep desire to help children with respiratory conditions live full, active, and healthy lives without feeling limited by their diagnoses,” she said.   

Choudhary said she is grateful to care for children with respiratory diseases and provide them with the necessary support. Continued advances in pediatric medicine have greatly improved survival rates for children with pulmonary complications.  

“Seeing these children thrive despite their challenges is the most fulfilling part of my job,” Choudhary said. “Being part of their care journey as they grow and overcome obstacles is both a privilege and a driving force in my work.”  

She most recently worked as a pediatric pulmonologist at Ochsner Hospital for Children in Jefferson, Louisiana, where she performed outpatient care and provided consultations in the emergency department.  

Choudhary earned her medical degree at Sawai Man Singh Medical College in Jaipur, India. During her studies, she scored in the top 10% of her class for four consecutive years. Choudhary completed her residency at the Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in New York City. Then, she completed a fellowship in pediatric pulmonology at Langone Hospital in Long Island, New York. Her scholarly activity has focused on the early detection of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR)-related metabolic syndrome (CRMS) in infants.  

In addition to her clinical activities, Choudhary is also an assistant professor of pediatrics at the Whiddon College of Medicine. The pulmonologist said her passion for teaching helped her decide to join USA Health, USA’s academic health system.  

“I find great meaning in teaching and mentoring medical students and residents and contributing to the education of the next generation of physicians,” she said.   

Choudhary is board certified in pediatrics and has been an active member of the American Academy of Pediatrics since 2017. “I want families to know that I am deeply committed to partnering with them – helping each child breathe easier, grow stronger, and achieve their fullest potential,” Choudhary said. 

Pediatric critical care specialist joins pediatrics faculty

Mohammad Sabobeh, M.D.

By Milena Mata 

To better serve the healthcare needs of critically ill and injured patients, USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital has expanded its critical care division with the addition of Mohammad Sabobeh, M.D. 

A fellowship-trained pediatric critical care specialist, Sabobeh said he understands the clinical setting can often be challenging, which forces him to think critically and quickly. He ultimately wants the best for his patients.  

“I am very passionate about understanding the physiology of the human body, and how multiple systems interact with each other during severe illnesses,” Sabobeh said. “Also, I was emotionally drawn to my patients and their families, as parents go through rough times during a child’s illness and stay in the pediatric intensive care unit. I feel if I am empowered with knowledge, skills, and good communication, I will be able to support them by treating their children.” 

In addition to his medical career, Sabobeh has extensive volunteer experience. In 2016, he helped execute a healthcare campaign in Qatar to vaccinate children in response to a measles outbreak. He participated in another vaccination program in Michigan to raise awareness of the importance of COVID-19 vaccines. 

He has also published articles and collaborated on several research projects related to critical care.  

Originally from Jordan, Sabobeh earned his medical degree at the Hashemite University School of Medicine in Zarqa, Jordan. He began developing a passion for pediatric care during his residency in Qatar at the Hamad Medical Corporation Hospital and Sidra Medicine and Research Center. In 2022, he completed a second residency at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo.  

Before joining USA Health, Sabobeh completed a fellowship for pediatric critical care medicine at the University of Tennessee Health and Science Center in Memphis. 

As part of USA Health, the academic health system for the University of South Alabama, Sabobeh is an assistant professor of pediatrics at the Whiddon College of Medicine. 

“I look at medical education as a legacy that stays behind, as all that knowledge and the skills you are able to transmit to others,” he said. “You would only hope they would use it wisely treating patients in their career and teaching others.” 

BMS graduate students match with faculty mentors, join labs

At the end of their first year of studies, students in the Basic Medical Sciences Graduate Program choose a major professor who will mentor them throughout the program. This selection also determines the students’ program track affiliation. Then, at the beginning of their second year, they join the labs with which they “matched,” and this lab home is where they will conduct research for their dissertation through graduation.

This year, seven second-year graduate students joined labs:

Rajarshi Banerjee
Hometown: Kolkata, India
Age: 25
Education: B.S. in biology with a focus in forensic science; M.S. in toxicology; Delhi, India
BMS track and faculty mentor: Cancer Biology, Santanu Dasgupta, Ph.D.
Research focus: mt-DNA mutations in PCa in circulating EVs and determining their potential usefulness.
Why did you choose to join this lab?
I always knew I wanted to work in a lab environment and do something that is translational. What's better than focusing on cancer? I really enjoy studying different types of cancer, and Dr. Dasgupta's lab gives me the environment where I can learn about cancer types, as well as the fact that he is an incredible scientist who helps me become the best version of myself. Also, my lab mates are nice people who are always there to help and support me whenever I need them. Overall, I am really happy that I can join such a nice lab, which is very close to my area of interest too.

Tyler Beling
Hometown: Bloemfontein, Free 9301, South Africa
Education: B.S. in quantity surveying, University of the Free State; M.S. in kinesiology, Boise State University
BMS track and faculty mentor: Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Biology; Thiago Bruder, Ph.D.

Research focus: Endothelial-derived PGRN and its effect on vascular function and insulin secretion under obesity-induced hypertension 

Why did you choose to join this lab?

I have always been interested in cardiovascular biology, but what really led me to join this lab was the lab culture. Dr. Bruder and the fellow lab members facilitate a welcoming environment. Not only that, they also love the science, are great teachers, and provide amazing guidance. I truly believe that this is the lab where I can grow and develop as a scientist to one day make a meaningful contribution to the cardiovascular field.

Nairuti N. Bhatt
Hometown: Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
Age: 28
Education: B.S., State University of Albany; M.S. in biology, University of Miami (accelerated pathway)
BMS track and faculty mentor: Neuroscience; John N. Soltys, M.D., Ph.D.
Research focus: Elucidating the molecular origins of pathological autoimmunity in multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune disorders like neuromyelitis optica of the central nervous system.
Why did you choose to join this lab?
I chose this lab because it was a perfect continuation of my work. In my master’s, I studied neutrophils, and here I get to study B cells, so from one white blood cell to another. I’ve also moved from gray matter to white matter, which connects with my strong interest in the CNS and in finding translational approaches that can lead to new therapies for patients.
Another big reason was the people. My mentor, Dr. Soltys, is incredibly talented and kind, and I know I’ll get the best training here to support my future goals. Our lab tech, Olena Gorodnya, makes learning fun while being an excellent teacher, and the undergrads bring diversity and energy that make the team even stronger.

Trey Deason
Hometown: Vernon, AL
Age: 27
Education: B.S. in biochemistry, University of South Alabama
BMS track and faculty mentor: Cell and Molecular Biology; Marie Migaud, Ph.D.
Research focus: Over-oxidized NAD metabolites and their consequences on bioenergetics in relation to age and disease
Why did you choose to join this lab?
I have known Dr. Migaud for a long time, as I had her as a teacher in undergrad, and I have always been fascinated with her work. So, when the opportunity to explore something novel with little to no background was offered to me, I knew immediately that this is what I wanted to pursue.

Sicily Hardy
Hometown: Mobile, AL
Age: 23
Education: B.S. in biomedical sciences, University of South Alabama
BMS track and faculty mentor: Infectious Disease and Host Defense, Allyson Shea, Ph.D.
Research focus: My research focuses on how riboside pyridones influence host-pathogen interactions and contribute to infection susceptibility.
Why did you choose to join this lab?
I decided to join this lab because of the experience I had while working here as an undergrad. I really value the lab environment and the strong relationships I’ve built with my lab mates, including Olu, Juleigh, and Rachel, as well as with Dr. Shea. I have always felt very loved and supported in this lab. I am also passionate about studying bacteria, particularly in the context of urinary tract infections, which predominantly affect women. Women's health is very important to me, and here I can pursue research that directly impacts it. 

Qudus Abiola Ojomo
Hometown: Idimu, Lagos, Nigeria
Age: 33
Education: Bachelor of Pharmacy, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Nigeria; M.Sc., Pharmacology, University of Lagos, Akoka, Nigeria
BMS track and faculty mentor: Infectious Disease and Host Defense; Robert Barrington, Ph.D.
Research focus: My research will investigate the role of alveolar macrophages and other innate immune cells in the pathology of autosomal dominant hyper IgE syndrome (AD-HIES).
Why did you choose to join this lab?
My interest in immunology began during my master’s program, when I took a course titled Immunopharmacology. This was my first introduction to immunotherapy and how the immune system could be harnessed to combat cancer and immune-related diseases such as AD-HIES. Later, during my rotation in Dr. Barrington’s lab, I was able to engage with the basic science of immunology more deeply. The lab’s focus and environment not only broadened my understanding but also solidified my passion for studying immune system mechanisms and their therapeutic potential.

Angela Russ
Hometown: Mobile, AL
Age: 23
Education: Mechanical Engineering, University of South Alabama
BMS track and faculty mentor: Biomedical Engineering and Bioinformatics; Mark Gillespie, Ph.D.
Research focus: DNA base damage and modifications
Why did you choose to join this lab?
I love how our group uses the latest technology and informatics techniques on projects that have great translational potential. It’s also a very welcoming environment that still maintains a high level of science — they hold a high bar for the results we put out from the lab while helping every student reach it.

Sarkar awarded American Cancer Society grant to advance colon cancer research

Chandrani Sarkar, Ph.D., is principal investigator of the project.

By Lindsay Hughes

With support from a four-year, $946,000 grant from the American Cancer Society (ACS), researchers at the University of South Alabama will investigate how immune cells called macrophages are regulated in colon cancer — work that could lead to new treatment strategies for one of the most lethal cancers worldwide.

The project will be led by Chandrani Sarkar, Ph.D., a cancer researcher at the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute and an assistant professor of pathology at the Whiddon College of Medicine. Sarkar serves as principal investigator on the grant.

Colon cancer is among the most common cancers in both men and women, and its high mortality rate stems largely from its ability to metastasize, or spread, to other organs. Nearly half of patients diagnosed with colon adenocarcinoma develop liver metastases, and survival rates drop sharply once the disease advances. While localized colon cancer carries a five-year survival rate of nearly 90%, that figure falls to just 15% for patients with metastatic disease, according to ACS data.

Although most primary colon tumors can be removed surgically, metastatic tumors often do not respond effectively to surgery, radiation or chemotherapy. In recent years, new treatment approaches have provided modest improvements in outcomes, but metastatic disease remains a major cause of cancer-related death.

Sarkar’s research centers on macrophages, a crucial cellular component of the tumor microenvironment. Depending on the cues they receive, macrophages can exhibit either pro-tumor or anti-tumor properties. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), the most abundant immune cells present in colon cancer, play a crucial role in cancer progression and metastasis. By studying how TAMs are regulated within the tumor microenvironment, Sarkar and her team aim to identify ways to “re-educate” these cells to fight cancer instead of fueling its progression.

“Currently, there are limited treatment options for patients with metastatic disease, and the prognosis is very poor,” Sarkar said. “Understanding the molecular mechanisms of macrophage regulation will reveal new targets for therapy and aid in the development of novel, targeted therapies for colon cancer.”

Current macrophage-associated therapies exhibit several shortcomings, Sarkar said, including poor efficacy and adverse side effects, and warrant further investigation. Her study will focus on the molecular drivers of TAM activity, seeking insights that could overcome those challenges and expand treatment options for patients.

Collaborators on the project are Debanjan Chakroborty, Ph.D., assistant professor of pathology; Guillermo Herrera, M.D., professor and chair of pathology; Richard Honkanen, Ph.D., professor and chair of biochemistry and molecular biology; Paramahansa Pramanik, Ph.D., assistant professor of math and statistics; and Ahmed Abdalla, M.D., assistant professor of interdisciplinary clinical oncology.

Sarkar joined USA Health and the Whiddon College of Medicine in July 2021. She earned a Ph.D. in cancer biology from Jadavpur University in Kolkata, West Bengal, India, and completed a postdoctoral research fellowship at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. She also holds a Master of Clinical Research from The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. 

Her research has been published in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals, and she has presented her work nationally and internationally.

Discovery 2030: Research town hall set for Sept. 9

The USA Office of Research and Economic Development will host a research town hall with Allen Parrish, Ph.D., vice president of research and economic development. He will discuss research at South, the R1 journey, and answer questions as the university launches a research strategic planning process.

Discovery 2030 Kickoff Town Hall is set for Tuesday, Sept. 9, from 2 to 3 p.m. in the Marx Library Auditorium.

Register and submit questions: https://bit.ly/RSPQuestions

Attendees are encouraged to submit questions in advance, as there will be time during the event to address a selection of the questions received.

The event will be recorded and archived for those who are unable to attend in person. This is the first of what will be many opportunities for engagement.

Whiddon COM team wins prize at 'Shark Tank'-style competition

Allyson Shea, Ph.D., center, and researchers Rachel Fleck and Ethan Myers made up the team from the Whiddon College of Medicine.

Nine teams made up of University of South Alabama students, faculty, staff and alumni recently competed in the Launch USA | Pitch Competition for a chance to win $10,000 in seed money from the Melton Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation.

The competition was the culmination of the Launch USA | Big Ideas Challenge, a program designed to foster entrepreneurial spirit by offering business education, mentorship and $5,000 in initial funding to support start-ups. During the Aug. 26 pitch event, sponsored by C-Spire, each team had 10 minutes to pitch their product or idea to a three-judge panel, similar to the TV show “Shark Tank.”

Allyson Shea, Ph.D., pitches UroBacT.

The Whiddon College of Medicine team took the runner-up prize of $2,500 for UroBacT, a diagnostic tool for urinary tract infections that will help increase accuracy, improve patient outcomes, and advance antibiotic stewardship. The team was led by Allyson Shea, Ph.D., assistant professor of microbiology and immunology, and assisted by researchers Rachel Fleck and Ethan Myers. 

The top prize of $7,500 went to engineering student Braxton Daw. His company, ManuLabs offers end-to-end solutions for designing and manufacturing complex components for industries like aerospace and healthcare.

The judging panel included Mike Eckert, chairman, Gulf South Angels; Brent Barkin, strategic advisor, Stoic Equity Partners; and Angela Dunn, senior vice president, Pinnacle Financial Partners.

The inaugural year of the Launch USA | Big Ideas Challenge was supported by a grant from the University of Alabama Honors College and the Innovate Alabama Network, a program which seeks to provide seed funding for innovative projects and encourage partnerships within the innovation ecosystem.

The Melton Center’s vision is to educate, engage, develop and impact the entrepreneurial community at the University of South Alabama and across the Central Gulf Coast region. The center supports the undergraduate entrepreneurship major through the Mitchell College of Business and offers programs for high school students and community members.