Dev Karan, Ph.D., is an associate professor and a research faculty member in the Department of Urology. The urology research lab focuses on multiple aspects of cancer research, specifically on understanding cancer immuno-biology and the role of inflammation in the development and progression of prostate cancer. Our primary goal is to harness the power of the immune system to improve both preventive and therapeutic efficacy against cancer cells using natural compounds, chemotherapy drugs, and antigen-specific immunotherapy.

We conduct transdisciplinary research at the intersection of molecular chemistry and biology to investigate the effects of natural and chemically synthesized drugs in the treatment of cancer and their impact on regulating the tumor microenvironment to suppress tumor-promoting environment.

Additionally, we have developed an adenovirus (Ad)-based vaccine for simultaneous targeting of prostate-specific antigens and demonstrated its superior therapeutic efficacy in preclinical studies and are actively working to translate this immunotherapy approach into clinical settings.

Urology residents also participate in the lab experience through an immersive 4-month rotation during their post-graduate year 3. During this time, they gain key foundational skills in basic science methodologies as well as sharpen critical thinking, data interpretation, and scientific writing abilities.