All Things Cancer Episode #5: A Special Conversation with Dr. Rakesh K. Jain
In this special edition of All Things Cancer, NFCR President and CEO Dr. Sujuan Ba sits down with world-renowned cancer researcher Dr. Rakesh Jain to reflect on a career of innovation, impact, and collaboration.
Dr. Jain, a longtime NFCR-supported scientist and the 2025 recipient of the AACR Lifetime Achievement Award, shares how his early work as a chemical engineer led to a breakthrough idea that changed cancer treatment: vascular normalization. His research showed that repairing abnormal tumor blood vessels could improve the delivery of both drugs and immune cells—an idea once considered radical, but now backed by FDA-approved therapies and over 300 ongoing clinical trials.
Beyond the science, Dr. Jain emphasizes the need for accessible, affordable treatments. His team has shown that widely available drugs like Losartan can significantly improve brain tumor outcomes when paired with immunotherapy — an approach that could transform care around the world.
Dr. Jain credits NFCR’s early support for helping bring bold ideas to life: “Without that seed funding and willingness to take risks, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”
The episode also highlights NFCR’s unique approach to funding high-risk, high-reward science and fostering collaboration across disciplines—an essential part of accelerating cures.
“No one has all the tools,” says Dr. Ba. “But together, we can save lives.”
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About All Things Cancer
Each episode of All Things Cancer will spotlight the most pressing topics in oncology, from cutting-edge treatments and emerging research to personal stories of resilience and hope. More than just a podcast, it’s a platform for raising awareness, advancing cancer education, and fostering a global community of support and collaboration.
Hosted by NFCR CEO, Sujuan Ba, Ph.D., this compelling series will bring together the entire ecosystem of cancer research—including leading scientists, oncologists, doctors, patient advocates, caregivers, biotech innovators, and survivors—for powerful discussions on the breakthroughs shaping the future of cancer research, treatment, and care.
All Things Cancer is now available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, with new episodes released biweekly.
Don’t Miss an Episode Release! Cancer impacts everyone—whether you’re a patient, caregiver, advocate, or researcher, this podcast delivers invaluable insights from those on the frontlines of the fight against it.
