Karel Pacak

Karel Pacak at the NIH is a world leader in the genetics and biology of pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma, having made landmark contributions to understanding hereditary susceptibility genes including SDHB, SDHD, and their clinical implications. His research has contributed to the recognition that over 30% of pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas are hereditary, transforming genetic testing recommendations. He has developed biochemical testing algorithms and imaging strategies optimized for each genetic subgroup. His work on the metabolic vulnerabilities of SDH-mutant tumors has contributed to therapeutic strategies.