Dr. John D. Carpten, a leading cancer geneticist at the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California, is making significant strides in addressing health disparities among minority populations. His work focuses on developing technologies to better understand how cancer patients respond to therapy, with a particular emphasis on cancers that disproportionately affect minorities.
Carpten’s research has led to important discoveries, such as the identification of genetic variants associated with prostate cancer susceptibility in African American men. He also found that TP53 gene mutations occur less frequently in multiple myeloma tumors of Black patients compared to non-Hispanic white patients, potentially impacting prognosis and treatment strategies.
Beyond the laboratory, Carpten advocates for greater minority participation in cancer clinical trials and genetic studies. He mentors underrepresented minority students and fellows in biology and medicine, providing crucial training and career opportunities.
“For decades, the potential biological aspects of cancer disparities were very rarely addressed or discussed,” Carpten said. “Now, finally, we have enough individuals in positions of power and influence who are finally stepping up and putting their foot down, saying, ‘Wait a minute, this is wrong.'”
Carpten’s commitment to addressing health disparities has earned him recognition, including his appointment as chair of the National Cancer Advisory Board by President Biden in 2021.
