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| Prabhat Suman, Ph.D., right, with his mentor, Debanjan Chakroborty, Ph.D., is investigating mechanisms that drive tumor growth. |
Prabhat Suman, Ph.D., a postdoctoral fellow in pathology, has been selected as a recipient of the inaugural BCRFA Catalyst Award, a $25,000 grant to support early investigators pursuing innovative breast cancer studies.
For Suman, who has spent the past three years investigating mechanisms that drive tumor growth, the award represents both validation and momentum.
“As a researcher, getting the BCRFA Catalyst Award means a lot to me,” he said. “Not only does it help me pursue new ideas, but it also gives me the confidence that I am on the right track with my work. This award will let me get the early results I need to strengthen my research and lay a solid groundwork for future grant applications. I am grateful for the opportunity.”
The project funded by the Catalyst Award will allow Suman to explore how WNT7b, a signaling protein, affects tumor growth. By generating preliminary data, the research team hopes to determine whether reducing WNT7b activity can slow or stop the spread of breast cancer cells.
“Understanding the mechanism of action of this protein could lead to the development of novel treatments, thereby improving disease prognosis,” Suman explained. “The results will help to secure larger grants and more advanced studies.”
His mentor, Debanjan Chakroborty, Ph.D., an assistant professor of pathology at the Whiddon College of Medicine and a cancer researcher at MCI, said the recognition comes at a pivotal moment in Suman’s career.
“As a mentor, I would like to say that this is a phenomenal achievement,” Chakroborty said. “Dr. Suman has been working with me for three years now, and I have witnessed his rapid growth as a researcher. The award will not only provide financial support but also boost his confidence in his research endeavors. He is an excellent researcher, and this award will undoubtedly strengthen his trajectory and contribute to future success. I look forward to seeing the outcome of this innovative study.”
Suman credits Chakroborty’s mentorship as a key part of his development. “I am thankful to my mentor, Dr. Debanjan Chakroborty, for his unwavering support and encouragement. His guidance has been vital in my growth as a researcher,” he said.
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama has invested more than $17 million in Alabama-based breast cancer research since 1996.
