Tulane Makes CNN's 5 Things for Biden's Cancer Moonshot Initiative

Bethany Jones
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Tulane University was highlighted in CNN's "5 Things" as a key player in President Joe Biden's recent announcement of $150 million in new funding for cancer research. The funding is part of the "Cancer Moonshot" initiative, a program Biden has championed since his time as vice president. The program's ambitious goal is to halve the number of cancer deaths in the coming decades through advancements in cutting-edge research and innovation. Tulane's involvement underscores its position as a leader in the fight against cancer, with $23 million of the new funding awarded to the university.

President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden visited Tulane University yesterday to personally announce this significant award. The funding will support the development of a groundbreaking MAGIC-SCAN (Machine-learning Assisted Gigantic Image Cancer margin SCANner) imaging system that allows doctors to scan a tumor during surgery and determine within minutes whether any cancer tissue has been left behind. This advancement has the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment, ensuring that all cancerous tissue is removed in a single operation, thereby reducing the need for repeated invasive surgeries. This innovation could significantly improve patient outcomes and recovery times.

Quincy talks about his cancer research
J. Quincy Brown, PhD, associate professor of biomedical engineering in the Tulane School of Science and Engineering explains in more depth about the MAGIC-SCAN project.

The university's research capabilities and commitment to addressing one of the most pressing health challenges of our time were key factors in its selection for this substantial grant. The inclusion of Tulane University in such a high-profile initiative not only reflects the institution's excellence in research but also its potential to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in cancer treatment. With this new funding, Tulane is poised to make significant strides in the Cancer Moonshot's mission to reduce cancer mortality and improve the lives of millions affected by the disease. The university's commitment to pushing the boundaries of medical technology and enhancing patient care places it at the forefront of the national effort to combat cancer. 

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