Understanding factors that contribute to the development of colorectal cancer could point to new targets for treating the disease at earlier stages, when survival rates are highest.

The findings of a new research study increase understanding of the molecular drivers of C. diff infection and point to novel therapeutic strategies aimed at a pathogen that causes about half a million infections in the U.S. each year.

The approach will address “bottlenecks” that slow the traditional antibody discovery process, and it aims to make it possible to generate monoclonal antibody therapies against any target of interest.

Because of his leadership, dedication to patients and his colleagues, and commitment to quality, Gaston received a Credo Award at the January VUMC Leadership Assembly.

Rathmell has been named chair of the Ben May Department for Cancer Research and director of the Ludwig Center at the University of Chicago, effective July 1.

The NIH is the world’s largest public funder of biomedical research. VUSM, which received $586 million in direct and indirect NIH grant support in FY24, has been among the top 10 recipients of NIH funding among U.S. medical schools for nine of the past 15 years.

Translational research brings discoveries from the laboratory and preclinical studies to clinical trials and studies in humans.