The American Society of Hematology (ASH) will honor Ari Melnick, MD, of Weill Cornell Medicine in New York, and Courtney DiNardo, MD, of the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, with the 2020 Ernest Beutler Lecture and Prize for their significant research contributions to the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia through an improved understanding of epigenetics.
Ari Melnick, MD
Courtney DiNardo, MD
The Ernest Beutler Lecture, named for the late Ernest Beutler, MD, Past President of ASH and physician-scientist for more than 50 years, is a two-part lectureship that recognizes major translational advances related to a single topic. The award honors two individuals: one for enabling advances in basic science; the other for carrying basic science advances through to tangible improvements in patient care. Drs. Melnick and DiNardo will present their lectures during the 62nd ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition.
Basic Science Award
Dr. Melnick is the Gebroe Family Professor of Hematology/Oncology and Professor of Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine, as well as a member of the Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center at Weill Cornell. His studies have shown that epigenetic mutations can serve as disease driver mechanisms and that epigenetic heterogeneity and clonality can influence the clinical outcome of these diseases. Dr. Melnick predominantly focuses on epigenetic mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of hematologic malignancies. His major scientific contributions include the first rationally designed transcription factor inhibitor for cancer treatment and the concept that the epigenome could serve as a “blueprint” containing the instructions that endow tumors with their unique phenotypes.
Translational/Clinical Award
Dr. DiNardo is a clinical researcher in the Department of Leukemia, Division of Cancer Medicine at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. She focuses on individualized therapy and precision oncology for acute myeloid leukemia, including the optimal incorporation of genomics into risk assessments and treatment algorithms. Her early research on IDH1 and IDH2 mutations in acute myeloid leukemia helped define the relationship and significance of the unique 2HG oncometabolite.
