Immunotherapy/Gene Therapy
Gilda G. Hillman, Ph.D.
Department of Radiation Oncology
Director, Radiation/Gene Therapy/Soy Program
Associate Professor
Julian J. Raffoul, Ph.D.
Post-Doctoral Fellow
Contact Us:
Department of Radiation Oncology
Hudson Webber Building, #515
4100 John R
Detroit, MI 48201
Phone: (313) 966-7652
Fax: (313) 966-0605
Dr. Gilda G. Hillman, Ph.D., established the Radiation/Gene Therapy/Soy Program in 1998.
The overall program mission is to enhance the therapeutic effect of radiation by combining tumor irradiation with other modalities for the treatment of prostate and kidney cancers. Immuno-mediated gene therapy is applied to enhance the local and systemic effect of radiation for metastatic disease.
Nutrition intervention with genistein, the anti-tumor compound found in soy, is used to potentiate radiation-induced tumor cell killing. The goal of this program is the translational application of combined protocols, developed in animal tumor models, to clinical trials.
Based on findings from this research program, clinical protocols have been designed and are being conducted by radiation therapists from the department in collaboration with clinical oncologists. The program provides training to residents, post-doctoral Fellows and medical students.