NEWS & UPDATES

On October 14, 2025, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons hosted a DocTalks panel on Cell Engineering and Therapy at The Times Center, bringing together leading experts to explore how engineered cells are shaping the future of medicine. Moderated by Pulitzer Prize–winning physician and author Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee, the discussion focused on how reprogramming the body’s own cells into “living medicines” may open new pathways for treating complex di

From June to August 2025, Ayobami, a fourth-year medical student at the University of Cambridge, spent his summer with the Spina Lab. He joined through Columbia University’s International Collaborative Exchange Program (ICEP), founded by Dr. Annette Wu. Cancer pathology had been one of his favorite subjects back home, and the pull of translational research—where science meets patient care—was too strong to ignore. “The chance to be on the frontier of cancer research, seeing t

From May 21st to June 18th, 2025, Sean Chung, a medical student from Taiwan, joined the Spina Lab as part of an international research exchange. His visit was made possible through Columbia University’s International Collaborative Exchange Program (ICEP), led by Dr. Anette Wu. “I’m incredibly grateful to her for giving me the opportunity to have this extraordinary experience,” Sean shared. During his time with the lab, Sean explored a project on neuroendocrine transformation

On May 31, Jasleen Virk earned second place at the Somers Science Fair, held at Somers High School, where she presented her research on radiopharmaceuticals in prostate cancer. Her project—rooted in a keen curiosity about clinical impact—focused on how different radiopharmaceuticals affect gene and protein expression in mice with two types of prostate cancer. “My topic was inspired by Dr. Spina’s research on radiopharmaceuticals and how they can make a huge difference in pati

© STAT News The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) has announced a $250 million investment over 10 years to establish a new Biohub in New York City. This center aims to develop a new class of cellular machines capable of surveilling the body and combating diseases. The Biohub will collaborate with leading institutions to advance this innovative research. Originally published by STAT News. Read the full article here . Original Publish Date: October 18, 2023

© Columbia University Irving Medical Center Columbia scientists are leading a multi-institutional effort to investigate how bladder and esophageal cancer cells shift identity to resist treatment. Their research could pave the way for new therapies that reverse this resistance and improve outcomes. Originally published by Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Read the full article here . Original Publish Date: May 2, 2025

Dr. Catherine Spina and her lab were recently highlighted in a Columbia University article that explores their innovative research at the intersection of radiation therapy and immunology. The feature discusses how her team is advancing cancer treatment by examining how radiation influences the immune environment around tumors. Originally published by Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Read the full article here . Original Publish Date: September 27, 2023