Saad J. Kenderian, M.B., Ch.B.

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SUMMARY

The research of Saad J. Kenderian, M.B., Ch.B., and his team is centered on the development and optimization of novel-engineered T cell therapy approaches for the treatment of cancer. Using the immune system to treat cancer (immunotherapy) has emerged as a potent and potentially curative modality. The recent success of engineered T cell therapy highlights the potential for this technology as a new pillar in the treatment of hematological malignancies.

Focus areas

• Modified cellular therapies. The major focus of Dr. Kenderian's research team is to develop safe and efficient next-generation modified cellular products and to extend their applications to the treatment of different hematological and solid tumors.
• Resistance to immunotherapy. Despite the reported success of immunotherapy and engineered T cell therapy in the treatment of hematological malignancies, a significant percentage of patients do not respond. A key area of Dr. Kenderian's laboratory is to identify mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapy in chronic lymphocytic leukemia and other hematological cancers.
• Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. Allogeneic transplantation remains the only potentially curative option in a number of hematological malignancies but is associated with high morbidity and mortality due to the development of graft-versus-host disease. Dr. Kenderian's laboratory is therefore investigating modified products to enhance the safety of allogeneic transplantation.
• Combination immunotherapy. In order to enhance the efficacy and safety of modified T cell therapy, Dr. Kenderian's laboratory is testing the optimal development of combinatorial approaches with signal inhibitors, small molecule approach and other immunotherapeutic approaches.

Significance to patient care

Dr. Kenderian's team is focused on developing new, effective and safe immunotherapeutic options for patients with relapsed and refractory hematological malignancies. His team collaborates with other teams and centers within Mayo Clinic and has several research efforts in early-phase clinical trials.

Professional highlights

• Research award, Minnesota Partnership for Biotechnology and Medical Genomics, 2023.
• Gilead Research Scholar Award, Gilead Sciences, 2019.
• Mayo Clinic:
  • New Investigator Award, Department of Medicine, 2018.
  • Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Award in Cancer Research, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, 2017.
  • Hematology/oncology award for outstanding achievement, 2013.
  • Mayo Clinic Scholar, 2013.
• American Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation:
  • Best abstract award, 2017.
  • Plenary presentation award, 205-2017.
• Biotechnology/Biobusiness Award, Regenerative Medicine Minnesota, 2017.
• Young Investigator Award, National Comprehensive Cancer Network, 2017.
• Alexandra J. Kefalides Memorial Award, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, 2014.
• McLaren Hospital, Michigan State University:
  • Consummate Physician Award, 2009.
  • Team Leader Award, 2009.
  • Outstanding Resident of the Year Award, 2007 and 2008.