Episode 119: BTK-Inhibitor Development: A Researcher's Perspective

Few drugs in oncology have transformed the way we take care of patients. Ibrutinib is one such drug, and it belongs to a class called "BTK inhibitors"In this episode, Chadi captures the story of developing the drug through the eyes of Dr. Jeff Sharman, a prolific investigator and researcher; he is the director of research at the Willamette Valley Cancer Institute as well as the medical director of hematology research for The US Oncology Network. Dr. Sharman begins by discussing the dynamics of opening clinical trials throughout the US Oncology Network, then shares his career choice to move into the community setting, how a research idea he came up with led him down a path of being discouraged by the academic research world, his experience treating the first ever patient in the world with ibrutinib, and the underpinnings of the biotech world.More on his story and the drug development dynamics are described in the fascinating book "For Blood and Money," authored by Nathan Vardi, who is next week’s guest.These two back-to-back episodes will make you think, pause, and reflect.Check out Chadi’s website for all Healthcare Unfiltered episodes and other content. www.chadinabhan.com/Watch all Healthcare Unfiltered episodes on Youtube. www.youtube.com/channel/UCjiJPTpIJdIiukcq0UaMFsA