2024 Prize: Dennis J. Slamon, M.D., Ph. D.
UCLA Health
Dr. Dennis J. Slamon, M.D., Ph.D., a UCLA oncologist and researcher, transformed breast cancer treatment through his pioneering identification of the HER2/neu oncogene, amplified in roughly a quarter to a third of breast cancers. His seminal work revealed that this molecular marker signified aggressive disease but could be effectively targeted. This led directly to the development of trastuzumab (Herceptin), the first-ever HER2-targeted therapy, which has dramatically improved survival for HER2-positive breast cancer patients.
In recognition of this paradigm-shifting achievement in precision oncology, Dr. Slamon was awarded the prestigious 2024 Szent‑Györgyi Prize for Progress in Cancer Research by the National Foundation for Cancer Research.
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