Christine Alewine

American oncologist and physician-scientist

Dr. Christine Alewine

Christine Alewine is an American oncologist and physician-scientist known for her research in the field of pancreatic cancer. She is a prominent figure at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), where she leads efforts to develop novel therapeutic strategies for treating this challenging disease.

Early life and education

Christine Alewine was born and raised in the United States. She pursued her undergraduate studies at Duke University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. Her interest in medicine and research led her to attend the University of Maryland School of Medicine, where she obtained her Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree. During her medical training, she developed a keen interest in oncology, which guided her future career path.

Following medical school, Dr. Alewine completed her residency in internal medicine at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. She then pursued a fellowship in medical oncology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, where she also conducted postdoctoral research in cancer biology.

Career

Dr. Alewine joined the National Cancer Institute as a staff clinician and later became a principal investigator. Her research focuses on the development of targeted therapies for pancreatic cancer, a disease known for its poor prognosis and limited treatment options. She is particularly interested in the use of immunotoxins, which are engineered proteins that combine a targeting antibody with a toxin to selectively kill cancer cells.

At the NCI, Dr. Alewine leads a research team that investigates the mechanisms of action of these immunotoxins and their potential application in clinical settings. Her work aims to improve the efficacy and safety of these treatments, with the goal of translating laboratory findings into effective therapies for patients.

Research contributions

Dr. Alewine's research has significantly advanced the understanding of how immunotoxins can be used to target pancreatic cancer cells. Her studies have explored the molecular pathways involved in the uptake and processing of these agents by cancer cells, as well as strategies to enhance their delivery and potency.

One of her notable contributions is the development of a novel immunotoxin that targets mesothelin, a protein overexpressed in many pancreatic tumors. This approach has shown promise in preclinical models and is being evaluated in clinical trials.

Awards and honors

Throughout her career, Dr. Alewine has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to cancer research. She has been recognized by the NCI for her innovative work and has received grants to support her research endeavors.

Personal life

Dr. Alewine is known for her dedication to mentoring young scientists and clinicians. She is actively involved in educational programs at the NCI and frequently participates in conferences and workshops to share her expertise with the broader scientific community.

Related pages

• Pancreatic cancer
• National Cancer Institute
• Immunotoxin
• Oncology