Nicholas J. Bartell, M.D - CGA-IGC Communications committee
Another CGA-IGC research grant recipient was highlighted in the newest episode of the CGA-IGC podcast. Giovanna Torrezan, PhD was interviewed by Catherine Neumann, MS, LCGC of the CGA-IGC research committee.
Dr. Torrezan was a recipient of a 2022 CGA-IGC research grant, and presented her work at the 2023 annual meeting in Las Vegas on KRAS-G12C: The neglected biomarker for identifying MUTYH-associated polyposis patients.
Dr. Torrezan outlined her career trajectory from an undergraduate to a leader in the basic science of hereditary cancer syndromes. Her work on KRAS-G12C somatic mutations as a biomarker for MUTYH-associated polyposis (MAP) may help better identify MAP patients, who are currently under-recognized. She also provides excellent advice to those interested in getting more involved with research.
“If you feel that science is your calling you need to be dedicated, passionate and very persistent about it. It is important to try to embrace every possibility to collaborate and share knowledge and learn from other students, researchers and clinicians because good science is a collaborative effort.”
Globally there are challenges in access for germline genetic testing; Dr. Torrezan outlines the current state of genetic testing in her native Brazil. Ultimately biomarkers such as KRAS-G12C will aid in identifying higher-risk patients where underlying germline pathogenic variants are more prevalent, allowing for more targeted testing in resource-poor settings.
Currently no official guidelines for such testing exists, but with more research we may be able to better personalize and target testing and treatments. Dr. Torrezan’s work embodies the collaborative spirit of CGA-IGC, and we could not be happier to have her as one of our many excellent members.
Listen to the podcast HERE
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If you enjoyed this podcast, you may like others from the CGA-IGC Podcast Series (Seasons 3, 4, 5, 6 & 7) presented by the CGA-IGC Education Committee. Or, explore our Expert Approach to Hereditary Gastrointestinal Cancers podcast series (Seasons 1 and 2).
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