Einstein scientists Harris Goldstein, MD, and Steven Almo, PhD, discussed advances in HIV and cancer research during the sixth Presidential Lecture on November 17 in Robbins Auditorium. Their work focuses on strategies that mobilize the immune system to potentially provide cures rather than lifelong treatments. The annual lecture series highlights outstanding research conducted at Montefiore Einstein.

Dr. Goldstein is a professor of pediatric allergy and immunology and of microbiology and immunology, the Charles Michael Chair in Autoimmune Diseases, director of the Einstein-Rockefeller-CUNY Center for AIDS Research, and senior associate dean for scientific affairs at Einstein. Dr. Almo is a professor and chair of biochemistry, the Wollowick Family Foundation Chair in Multiple Sclerosis and Immunology, co-leader of the Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center Therapeutics Program, and co-founder of Cue Biopharma, a clinical-stage oncology company.

The two honored speakers discussed their work with proteins known as Immuno-STATs, which can selectively induce a potent T cell–mediated immune response against HIV-infected cells or cancer cells. These responses are more focused and effective than those typically induced by vaccines.

Pamela Stanley, PhD, professor of cell biology and chair of the faculty interactions committee that selected this year’s speakers, welcomed the audience. She was followed by Philip O. Ozuah, MD, PhD, president and CEO of Montefiore Einstein, and Yaron Tomer, MD, the Marilyn and Stanley M. Katz Dean of Einstein and chief academic officer at Montefiore Einstein, who each delivered remarks.

Dr. Goldstein described the presentation as a “role reversal,” noting that he, an MD, would present the basic science aspect of their research, published online August 5 in the Journal of Virology, while Dr. Almo, a PhD, would present the clinical portion. He highlighted the collaborative culture at Einstein and Montefiore as central to their success.

Dr. Almo discussed the work required to develop precision biologics capable of regulating the immune response, emphasizing the importance of translating these technologies into biotech, pharmaceutical development, and clinical trials. He underscored the goal of creating therapies that are both personalized and rapidly deployable in clinical settings.