The Department of Urology presented 11 different research posters at the College of Medicine, Celebration of Research on Tuesday February 10th, at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. Of the over 500 posters submitted, we are thrilled to call attention to four posters that were selected as research highlights by the College of Medicine as well as to our own research assistant Ms. Sophia Amro Gazze, who’s poster was chosen as a finalist for an oral presentation that will compete against several others for COM excellence awards. Congratulations to all participants, and good luck with your presentations next week!
- Sophia Amro Gazze (abstract #379). Sophia is a MPH student and Research Assistant in the Department of Urology. Preclinical Evaluation of HYAL2-targeting Antibody-Drug Conjugate for Treatment of Advanced Cancers, PI Dr Kusmartsev This preclinical study introduces a first-in-class Hyal2-targeting antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) that simultaneously eradicates Hyal2-expressing tumor cells and immunosuppressive myeloid populations, achieving durable tumor regression and immune memory, especially when combined with anti-PD-1 therapy. By reprogramming the tumor microenvironment to overcome immunotherapy resistance, this work has strong translational potential to improve outcomes for patients with advanced bladder cancer and other solid cancers. The project advances the UF DOU research mission by delivering innovative, mechanism-driven immunotherapeutic strategies with clear clinical relevance to urologic malignancies.
- Kunal Hanchate (abstract #037) Developing an Artificial Intelligence Model for Intraoperative Identification of Urinary Stone Composition, PI Dr Bird This novel artificial intelligence model was developed to identify urinary stone composition using intraoperative endoscopic imaging. This model overcomes key limitations of traditional stone analysis including delays in results and cost burdens for both patients and providers. It can support real-time decision-making during lithotripsy and guide post-operative stone prevention. Our model advances the Department of Urology’s research mission by integrating new technologies including artificial intelligence to improve patient care during surgical and diagnostic decision making, streamline intra-operative and post-operative management, and support future use of robotic platforms to deliver precision-guided and efficient care.
- Kevin George (abstract #119) Predictors of Perioperative Hemoglobin Decline Following Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate. PI Dr DiBianco This is a large retrospective cohort study of men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who underwent holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) at the University of Florida. After evaluating a number of pre-, peri-, and post-operative factors, perioperative hemoglobin decline following HoLEP was found to be driven primarily by operative time and resection weight (size of prostate gland) rather than patient characteristics or pharmacologic adjuncts. This research stands out for its clinical utility, suggesting that optimizing surgical technique and efficiency in the operating room is the most beneficial way to minimize blood loss. By offering data-driven insights into a common surgical procedure, this work advances the Department of Urology’s mission to provide transformative research solutions for the management of BPH
- Anirudh Venkatesh (abstract #134) Continuous Low-Dose Intranasal Testosterone Administration With Stimulatory Therapy of FSH/LH Does Not Lead To Suppression Of Fertility Parameters: A Pilot Study, PI Dr Campbell The management of male hypogonadism in men desiring fertility preservation requires consideration of both therapeutic and safety profiles. This pilot study evaluates the initiation of intranasal testosterone to combat hypogonadal symptoms in men who underwent concurrent stimulatory gonadotropin therapy (FSH/hCG) for sperm production. The outcome data shows this novel treatment protocol provides a clinically safe and effective fertility-sparing therapeutic option for reproductive-age men. In alignment with the UF Department of Urology’s research mission, this project advances the evolving landscape of male reproductive care while integrating innovative, patient-centered urologic care to improve long-term reproductive and hormonal health outcomes
