Jann Sarkaria, MD

Dr. Jann Sarkaria is a highly esteemed radiation oncologist and a preeminent translational researcher dedicated to overcoming the profound therapeutic resistance characteristic of glioblastoma (GBM). Based at the prestigious Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, Dr. Sarkaria directs a robust, multidisciplinary research program that focuses on the critical intersection of radiation therapy, targeted molecular inhibitors, and drug delivery within the central nervous system. His laboratory is internationally recognized for its rigorous investigation into why standard-of-care treatments frequently fail in GBM patients, and for developing innovative strategies to sensitize these intractable tumors to radiation and chemotherapy. A hallmark of Dr. Sarkaria’s scientific contribution is his development and vast characterization of the Mayo Clinic brain tumor patient-derived xenograft (PDX) national resource. This extensive panel of models is meticulously designed to reflect the vast genetic heterogeneity of human glioblastoma, serving as a critical tool for evaluating blood-brain barrier (BBB) pharmacokinetics and testing the efficacy of next-generation therapeutics. His research provides essential insights into how drugs penetrate the brain and how the tumor microenvironment influences drug distribution and efficacy. Dr. Sarkaria earned his medical degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and completed his residency in radiation oncology, merging clinical acumen with deep scientific inquiry. As a Scientific Advisor for Curtana Pharmaceuticals, Dr. Sarkaria provides vital strategic direction on overcoming BBB penetration challenges and designing synergistic combination therapies. His comprehensive understanding of GBM biology and pharmacology ensures that Curtana’s clinical development strategies are grounded in rigorous, clinically predictive science.