Dr. Carol Aghajanian's journey in gynecologic oncology exemplifies how passionate leadership and patient-focused research can transform cancer treatment paradigms. As the chief of Gynecologic Medical Oncology Service at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK), she has consistently pushed the boundaries of scientific innovation while maintaining an unwavering focus on patient care.
Transformative Research Impact
Aghajanian's research has fundamentally altered the treatment landscape for gynecologic cancers. Her work with PARP inhibitors has been particularly revolutionary, as demonstrated through the phase 3 ARIEL3 trial. This pivotal study showed that rucaparib maintenance therapy significantly improved progression-free survival in patients with recurrent ovarian carcinoma, establishing a new standard of care.
"These are ways that we are disrupting [treatment] in a positive way," Aghajanian explains. "It was a new treatment paradigm to give maintenance [therapy], whether it was bevacizumab, PARP inhibitors, or immunotherapy. That has really changed things for these patients."
Innovation Through Patient Engagement
Her recent work has expanded into immunotherapy combinations, leading to breakthrough treatments for endometrial cancer. The phase 3 NRG-GY018/KEYNOTE-868 trial, involving nearly 1,000 patients, demonstrated superior outcomes with pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy compared to chemotherapy alone, resulting in FDA approval for this combination.
"When you're in clinic...listening to your patients and paying attention to what's going on, the science comes from that. When you stay on mission, you make your greatest successes," she emphasizes.
Building a Legacy of Mentorship
At MSK, Aghajanian has cultivated an environment where mentorship and collaborative research flourish. Drawing from her own experiences with mentors like Dr. David R. Spriggs and Dr. Larry Norton, she has made mentoring the next generation of oncologists a cornerstone of her career.
"I'm most proud of carrying forward that spirit of mentorship," she reflects. This commitment to nurturing talent has created a team unified in their dedication to advancing science and improving patient care.
Advancing Team Science
Aghajanian's contributions extend beyond individual research achievements. Her leadership in the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) and current role in NRG Oncology have strengthened collaborative research efforts nationwide. She has championed inclusive clinical trial design and streamlined research processes, ensuring broader patient representation and more efficient study execution.
Patient-Centered Innovation
Throughout her career, Aghajanian has maintained that the most significant scientific advances often emerge from patient interactions. "The patients are our mission. We don't take care of cancer; we take care of patients with cancer," she emphasizes, highlighting her commitment to translating clinical observations into meaningful therapeutic advances.
Looking ahead, Aghajanian remains focused on ensuring her legacy continues through the next generation of oncology leaders. Her work has not only advanced treatment options but has also established a model for patient-centered research that will influence the field for years to come.
