Shannon P. Fortin Ensign, M.D., Ph.D.

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SUMMARY

Shannon P. Fortin Ensign, M.D., Ph.D., oversees a research program that aims to acquire a better understanding of gliomas, and use this knowledge to direct the development of new treatments. Her research is aimed at clarifying the molecular properties within these aggressive brain tumors that enable them to become resistant to current treatments.

Cancer cells that survive treatment and are able to continue growing will repopulate the malignant tumor. Dr. Fortin Ensign is currently investigating genes in these tumors that direct resistance to treatments. These studies will help guide personalized molecular-based treatment approaches for people with gliomas.

Focus areas

• Cancer genomics and intratumoral heterogeneity. Gliomas are notoriously varied in appearance and cell biology function across regions of the tumor. Thus, a major focus is studying these tumors at a molecular level, with a focus on their regional properties and evolution over time. This will enable a better understanding of genetic drivers, where they reside within the tumor and how they lead to resistance to current treatments.
• Resistance mechanisms to therapy. Treatment options are limited for gliomas. Dr. Fortin Ensign is studying the impact of current therapies on the molecular properties of gliomas in order to better understand potential tumor vulnerabilities. This will allow identification of potential new therapeutic targets for this disease.
• Translational and pre-clinical target validation. Dr. Fortin Ensign studies the biology of genetic drivers of glioma behavior in both tumor tissue taken directly from gliomas and tumor cells cultured in the lab to identify genes that show promise for new treatments. This data will help design future clinical trials for people with gliomas.

Significance to patient care

An improved understanding of the biology of gliomas will better direct targeted treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes for this disease. The aim is for findings from this research to be translated into clinical trial options for patients.

Professional highlights

• Mayo Clinic principal investigator, Collaborative Research Seed Grant, Arizona State University and Mayo Clinic, 2024.
• Mayo Brothers Distinguished Fellowship Award, 2022.