David Fajgenbaum is an accomplished American immunologist and author, currently serving as an assistant professor at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. His professional journey is marked by a profound commitment to understanding and treating Castleman disease, a rare and often fatal condition that he himself was diagnosed with during his medical training. Fajgenbaum’s groundbreaking work led him to co-found the Castleman Disease Collaborative Network, which has become a pivotal resource for patients and researchers alike, fostering collaboration and accelerating research in this under-studied area of medicine.
In 2015, Fajgenbaum joined the University of Pennsylvania, where he also serves as the associate director of the Orphan Disease Center. His leadership in establishing the Center for Cytokine Storm Treatment & Laboratory has been instrumental in advancing research on hyperinflammatory diseases. Fajgenbaum’s innovative approach to treatment includes the identification of mTOR signaling as a key factor in Castleman disease, leading him to test an mTOR inhibitor on himself, a move that has garnered significant attention and praise within the medical community.
Fajgenbaum’s contributions extend beyond research; he is also a published author. His memoir, “Chasing My Cure: A Doctor’s Race to Turn Hope Into Action,” chronicles his personal battle with Castleman disease and his quest for a cure. The book has resonated widely, becoming a bestseller and inspiring many with its message of resilience and determination.
In addition to his research and writing, Fajgenbaum launched the CORONA Project in 2020 to identify effective treatments for COVID-19, showcasing his commitment to leveraging his expertise for broader public health challenges. He also co-founded the nonprofit organization Every Cure in 2022, aimed at maximizing the potential of existing medicines to treat various diseases. Through his multifaceted career, David Fajgenbaum continues to make significant strides in medicine, driven by his personal experiences and a deep desire to help others.
