C-DOCTOR PI Dr. Derrick Wan Awarded the Shils Excellence in Research Award

In October 2024, C-DOCTOR PI Dr. Derrick Wan was honored with the Shils Excellence in Research Award for his innovative project titled “Transdermal Deferoxamine for Treatment of Irradiated Soft Tissue.” This project focuses on using deferoxamine, administered through the skin, to aid in healing damaged soft tissue caused by radiation.

Around one-third to one-half of cancer patients receiving radiation therapy suffer from severe soft tissue injury, with current treatments offering limited solutions. Dr. Derrick Wan has developed using a transdermal patch delivery system for deferoxamine. Preclinical studies have shown that direct injection of deferoxamine improves blood flow and tissue quality in irradiated areas, but this method poses logistical challenges. The transdermal patch offers a more patient-friendly and efficient treatment, addressing a significant clinical need for better management of radiation-induced fibrosis. Dr. Derrick Wan was honored with the Shils Excellence in Research Award in 2024 for his work in developing this novel and innovative approach.

The nonprofit organization Dr. Edward B. Shils Entrepreneurial Fund honors the legacy of Dr. Shils and promotes entrepreneurship and leadership in oral health through its support of award programs that recognize individuals and organizations making significant contributions to public health and oral care. Other awards include the Shils-Meskin Award for outstanding contributions to dentistry, the Cohen-Volpe Award for healthcare innovation, and others for excellence in industry, community service, academic research, and special recognition for impacts on the dental community.

In 2023, the recipient of the Excellence in Research was Acting Director of the NIDCR, Jennifer Webster-Cyriaque. We congratulate Dr. Wan for this well-deserved achievement.