Carmen Bergom, MD, PhD

Washington University in St. Louis (WU)

My research goal is to improve the therapeutic ratio of radiation therapy by understanding and minimizing radiation-induced cardiac dysfunction and improving tumor radiation responses. My research program focuses on utilizing unique genetic models to identify new targets for improving tumor responses to radiation and to minimize damage to the heart from radiation exposure. Our laboratory aims to identify novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers of radiation-induced cardiac toxicity in order to better prevent, minimize, and treat this long-term toxicity. In addition, we are identifying host and/or tumor microenvironmental factors that improve the responses of breast cancer to radiation therapy.