Duke Pathology PhD candidate Loren Weidenhammer has been awarded the prestigious Ruth L. Kirschstein Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (NRSA F31) from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to support her research into the mechanisms that drive metastatic melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Weidenhammer, a member of the laboratory of Mikhail Nikiforov, PhD, professor in the Department of Pathology, received a $150,342 award that will provide support over the next three years, beginning Sept. 1, 2026.
Metastatic melanoma is a significant public health challenge, with incidence rates continuing to rise in the United States. For melanoma cells to spread throughout the body, they must rewire their metabolism and adapt the way they generate and use energy. Weidenhammer's research focuses on understanding a critical aspect of that process, investigating how melanoma cells regulate production of a molecule called guanosine triphosphate (GTP), an energy source that is essential for cancer cell growth, division, and invasion of surrounding tissues.
Cancer cells produce large amounts of GTP through a pathway that relies on the enzyme inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase 2 (IMPDH2). Previous studies have shown that IMPDH2 is often overexpressed in melanoma, but it is unclear which mechanisms control its activity.
The Nikiforov lab and colleagues discovered that, in metastatic melanoma cells, IMPDH2 undergoes acetylation, a biochemical modification that can function like an on/off switch and influence the enzyme's activity.
"These findings reveal a new mechanism through which IMPDH2 is regulated in melanoma cells," said Weidenhammer. "We hope to gain a better understanding of this process to help identify new therapeutic strategies for patients with melanoma."
According to Nikiforov, the fellowship recognizes both the significance of Weidenhammer's research and her potential as a future scientific leader.
"Loren is very intelligent and inquisitive, but also friendly, extroverted, and highly collaborative," said Nikiforov. "She works exceptionally well with colleagues and helps foster a positive and supportive lab environment. I’m confident that Loren will continue to build on these accomplishments, produce high-quality research, and transition seamlessly into a productive and successful scientific career. I congratulate her on this well-deserved fellowship award."
The NIH F31 fellowship program supports promising predoctoral researchers as they develop the skills and experience needed for successful careers in biomedical research. Through this award, Weidenhammer will continue investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying melanoma progression and exploring new opportunities for therapeutic intervention.