El Paso, Texas, is facing a disproportionately high rate of pancreatic cancer, and researchers at Texas Tech Health El Paso are pursuing innovative treatments, including exploring the potential of a common Indian tree. The work, fueled by a $45,000 grant from the Lizanell and Colbert Coldwell Foundation, centers on gedunin, a compound found in the neem tree, and its ability to combat the aggressive cancer with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. This research represents a critical step in addressing a significant health disparity in the region, where pancreatic cancer strikes at a rate of 8.8 per 100,000 people – higher than the state average.
Ramadevi Subramani Reddy, Ph.D., a researcher at the Francis Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, is leading the investigation. Her personal connection to the neem tree – recalling its use by her grandmother in India for a variety of ailments – sparked the idea to examine its potential in modern cancer treatment. “Its scientific name is Azadirachta indica,” Dr. Subramani Reddy explained, “But many call it the farmer’s pharmacy as it’s used for many illnesses, from head to toe, including diabetes.” This connection to diabetes, a common comorbidity with pancreatic cancer, is a key focus of her research.
Pancreatic cancer is notoriously difficult to treat, with a grim 90% mortality rate and a median survival time of just six months. Current treatments often approach with debilitating side effects, highlighting the urgent need for new therapies. Dr. Subramani Reddy’s work focuses on disrupting the Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway, a key regulator of cancer growth and spread. The Shh pathway, named after the video game character due to the protein molecule’s spiky shape, is a crucial target for cancer intervention, though disrupting it requires careful consideration to avoid interfering with normal cell reproduction.
Dr. Subramani Reddy, who has been a researcher at Texas Tech Health El Paso since 2012, believes that harnessing the power of natural compounds like gedunin could offer a less toxic approach to treatment. “Most chemotherapeutic drugs are a little toxic,” she said. “Finding an effective drug with fewer adverse effects is very important. If you seize any edible plant and discover some drugs from there, it might be less adverse compared to other synthetic drugs.” Her work builds on 14 years of dedication to cancer research, specifically focused on the health challenges facing the Borderplex community.
Addressing Heart Disease in the Borderplex
The Coldwell Foundation’s support extends beyond cancer research. Dr. Kazue Okajima, a cardiologist at the Foster School of Medicine, received a $36,000 grant in 2025 to investigate the effectiveness of different blood thinners for heart patients undergoing angioplasty. Her research focuses on improving survival rates for individuals in the El Paso area, where cardiovascular disease, particularly coronary heart disease, is a significant health concern. Recent studies indicate a higher incidence of heart disease and related risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity in the U.S.-Mexico border region.
Dr. Okajima meticulously reviewed past angioplasty cases, comparing the outcomes of patients treated with traditional blood thinners versus a more potent alternative. Her preliminary findings have already influenced her clinical practice, demonstrating the immediate impact of this research on patient care.
A Legacy of Support for Border Health
The Lizanell and Colbert Coldwell Foundation has been a long-time supporter of medical research at Texas Tech Health El Paso, awarding over $1.6 million in grants since 1991. These contributions are vital for addressing the unique health needs of the El Paso community. “These grants allow our researchers to focus on the diseases killing El Pasoans at higher rates than the rest of the country—and find treatments that work specifically for our community,” said Rajkumar Lakshmanaswamy, dean of the Francis Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and senior director of the Center of Emphasis in Cancer research program. “By funding critical studies, the Coldwell Foundation ensures we can pursue breakthroughs to improve health care in our region and strengthen our community.”
The ongoing research at Texas Tech Health El Paso, supported by the Coldwell Foundation, offers a beacon of hope for residents of El Paso and beyond. Researchers will continue to analyze the effects of gedunin on pancreatic cancer cells, with the goal of initiating clinical trials in the future. Further updates on Dr. Subramani Reddy’s research and other initiatives at Texas Tech Health El Paso can be found on the university’s website.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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