Research
The Pulmonary Research Program at MD Anderson Cancer Center is dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of pulmonary diseases, particularly lung cancer. Our multidisciplinary team conducts cutting-edge research aimed at improving patient outcomes through innovative diagnostic methodologies and personalized treatment strategies.
Key Areas of Focus
Lung Cancer Research
We explore novel diagnostic tools, staging techniquesand minimally invasive treatment modalities to improve quality of life and survival for patients with lung cancer and other thoracic malignancies.
Pulmonary Disease Studies
Beyond cancer, our research extends to pneumonia, drug-induced pneumonitis, interstitial lung disease and other respiratory conditions that impact patients¡¯ quality of life.
Pleural Disease Studies
Malignant pleural effusions affect a large portion of the patients with lung cancer, breast cancer, lymphomas and other malignancies. We focus on minimally invasive procedures to improve patients¡¯ breathing and overall quality of life.
Translational Research
We bridge the gap between laboratory findings and clinical applications, ensuring that breakthrough discoveries are rapidly translated into real-world treatments.
Patient-Centered Research
Our program emphasizes patient-focused research, working closely with individuals to understand their unique needs, symptoms and treatment responses.
Research for better outcomes
Our ultimate goal is to improve the lives of those affected by cancer and pulmonary diseases via early detection, accurate diagnosis and staging, and minimally invasive personalized treatment. Through ongoing research, we are striving to change the landscape of pulmonary care in cancer patients.
Our approach
Collaboration
The Pulmonary Research Program works in close collaboration with various departments, including Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Radiation Oncology, Immunology, Thoracic Imaging and Pathology to foster a comprehensive approach to treatment and research.
Clinical Trials
We offer a wide range of clinical trials, providing patients access to the latest experimental treatments and therapies. Learn more about our clinical trials.
Innovative Technologies
Our team utilizes state-of-the-art technology to enhanceresearch capabilities, including advanced imaging techniques, robotics and artificial intelligence.
Medical Director: Roberto F. Casal, MD
Message from the Medical Director (RFC):
¡°Our clinical research unit is at the forefront of clinical and translational research in lung cancer, malignant pleural disease, and other conditions that commonly affect patients with cancer such as pulmonary infections and drug-induced pneumonitis. Our researchers are pioneers in the field of bronchoscopy, advanced thoracic imaging, robotics and pleural interventions. Trials aimed at early detection and accurate diagnosis of lung cancer, minimally invasive staging, bronchoscopic therapeutics and management of malignant pleural effusions are commonly available to our patients. Our most recent research trials integrating robotics, advanced chest imaging and artificial intelligence have resulted in safer and more effective bronchoscopy procedures. While immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of many cancers, it commonly induces inflammation in the lungs (pneumonitis). Our research team is dedicated to obtaining a deeper understanding of this process, find ways to predict it and hopefully, in the future, prevent it. Please review below a summary of our active trials."
Supervisor:
Jhankruti Zaveri
Investigators:
Research Coordinators:
Anum Waqar
Luis Luna
Jhankruti Zaveri