“Extraordinary Research Contributions” Helping Cancer Patients
Weiyi Peng, associate professor of biology at the University of Houston’s Department of Biology and Biochemistry, was awarded the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics Junior Faculty Award for Excellence in Research. Peng’s studies enhance the understanding of immune resistance in cancer patients. Peng serves as director of UH’s Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling and the UH Drug Discovery Institute.
The award is given to junior faculty who demonstrate significant research potential and whose contributions exhibit exceptional quality. Peng received $5,000 and a plaque during NSM’s fall Faculty Recognition Luncheon.
Understanding Cancer Pathways and Beyond
Peng began studying immune dysfunction while investigating kidney disease in medical school. She wanted to help extend the lives of her patients and decided to attend graduate school. Peng chose a lab focused on cancer immunotherapy, which led to her Ph.D. research on how new T cells recognize tumors with abnormal cells.
When applying for the award, Peng received letters of support from three respected individuals who work outside of UH and in her field. They include Roza Nurieva, Guangyong Peng, and David B. Correy.
Peng’s peers praise her as making “key contributions” to T cell-mediated antitumor immunity. “The significance of her work is reflected by the fact that she is first or co-corresponding author in high-impact journals,” said Nurieva, professor of immunology at MD Anderson Cancer Center.
Guangyong Peng, professor of immunobiology and medicine at Washington University in St. Louis, commented “Weiyi Peng has more than 15 years of experience in T cell biology and tumor immunology. Her research holds great promise for translation into clinical treatments for cancer patients.”
Peng’s studies also influence how illnesses like Parkinson’s disease are studied.
“I am extending my expertise in T cell and immune-related diseases like Parkinson’s,” said Peng. “Through this knowledge, we can explore new avenues for treatment. We can maximize their benefits for patients and change their lives.”
Recognized for Research Excellence in Immunology
“It has been my great honor to be selected for this award,” said Peng. “This helps increase the visibility of my research and potentially can open more collaborations within UH or even with other institutions.”
“Peng’s research is well supported, totaling some $1.25 million in direct costs,” said Professor David B. Correy, who teaches Pathology & Immunology and Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. “I would rate the overall impact of Peng’s research accomplishments as very high and indeed placing her among the most accomplished early career immunologists I have ever known.”
As she looks ahead, she hopes her research will further enhance immune response.
- Ashley Byers, College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics