Funda Meric-Bernstam, M.D., chair of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, has been elected to the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) in recognition of her significant contributions to precision oncology, therapeutics development, and biomarker discovery. Her work includes leading practice-changing clinical trials.
The NAM, established in 1970, advises the nation on health, medicine, health policy, and biomedical sciences. Election to the NAM is considered one of the highest honors in these fields, recognizing outstanding professional achievement and commitment to service.
Contributions to Oncology
Meric-Bernstam's work has significantly impacted the development of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). Her leadership in HER2-targeted ADC clinical trials has led to changes in National Comprehensive Cancer Network treatment guidelines and multiple FDA approvals, including the first tumor-agnostic FDA approval for an ADC earlier this year. These efforts have broadened treatment options for patients with various solid tumors expressing HER2.
"This is a very exciting time in oncology with many new therapies we can offer our patients and new tools to be able to personalize these treatments," said Meric-Bernstam. "It is such an honor to be acknowledged by the National Academy of Medicine. However, clinical and translational research is all about teamwork, and I would like to acknowledge my colleagues, as well as my clinical and lab research team members for their tireless efforts on behalf of our patients."
Leadership at MD Anderson
In addition to directing MD Anderson’s Phase I program, Meric-Bernstam also directs the Institute for Personalized Cancer Therapy. There, she has spearheaded large-scale efforts for genomic testing, creating a framework for rapid assessment of genomic alterations and a clinical trials alert system. This system expedites patient enrollment in genotype-selected trials, improving the efficiency of precision oncology initiatives.
Overcoming Resistance in Cancer Therapies
Meric-Bernstam has developed novel approaches to overcoming intrinsic and acquired resistance in targeted therapies and ADCs. Her work includes groundbreaking research in patient-derived cancer models. Since joining MD Anderson in 1998, she has authored over 600 peer-reviewed papers and secured more than $23 million in research funding.
"Dr. Meric-Bernstam has made breakthrough advances in new treatment approaches that have significantly improved outcomes for many cancer patients," said Peter WT Pisters, M.D., president of MD Anderson. "Her efforts have benefited her own patients and have touched many more lives through her leadership of MD Anderson’s exceptional Phase I clinical trials program. We proudly congratulate her on this well-deserved honor."
