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Patricia S. Lorenzo, an internationally renowned researcher who helped discover a gene relating to the formation of skin cancer, died Wednesday after she lost her battle to stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. She was 49.
"She was a very strong and independent researcher," said Alan Lau, professor of the cancer biology program at the University of Hawaii Cancer Center and interim director of the Pacific Biosciences Research Center.
Lorenzo, associate professor of the cancer biology program at the UH Cancer Center, was one of only a few researchers nationwide whose grant from the National Cancer Institute was renewed for her work. She competed with top researchers from universities such as the University of California, Los Angeles; Harvard; and the University of Chicago for funding, said Lau, who served as her mentor when she started at the center in July 2001.
"She was one of the best," Lau said.
Her research indicated the gene, RasGRP1, was a novel one in the formation of skin tumors in mice and could be involved in squamous cell carcinomas, Lau said. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer in humans, according to SkinCancer.org.
Lorenzo also was studying a natural product compound, terpestacin, with fellow researchers at the university. She discovered the compound had the ability to inhibit blood vessel growth in tumors.
When tumors metastasize — spread or grow — the process requires the growth of blood vessels in the tumor, Lau said. Once the cancer cells enter blood vessels, those cells can get distributed throughout the body.
Lorenzo had planned to research whether terpestacin could be a novel drug to treat metastatic cancer. Colleagues said they will do their best to continue her research.
Originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Lorenzo earned her master’s degree in biochemistry and pharmacy as well as her doctorate in pharmacology from the University of Buenos Aires. Lorenzo also was a postdoctoral fellow in cancer biology at the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Md.
Dr. Michele Carbone, director of the UH Cancer Center, said Lorenzo will be best remembered for her contributions to cancer research as well as her strength and dignity. She continued to work until the last moment of her life, Carbone said.
Lorenzo also was a dedicated mother and wife. Outside of work she devoted her time to her three children — Fiona, 9, and twins Dylan and Owen, 4 — and husband, Daniel Maio.
Along with her husband and children, Lorenzo is survived by her mother, Lidia Lapadura; and sisters Maria and Veronica. A service will be held today at Star of the Sea Church. Visitation will start at 8:30 a.m. The service will begin at 11 a.m.
An account has been set up at Central Pacific Bank to assist Lorenzo’s family with expenses. Donations are being accepted at any bank branch. Checks can be made out to "Friends of the UH Cancer Center-Patricia S. Lorenzo."
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