Cleveland, Ohio – The medical and scientific communities are mourning the loss of Dr. Charis Eng, a distinguished geneticist and genomic medicine pioneer, who passed away recently at the age of 62. Dr. Eng’s groundbreaking work in cancer genetics and her leadership at the Cleveland Clinic have left an indelible mark on the field of medical genetics.
Dr. Eng was best known for her discovery of the connection between the PTEN gene and Cowden Syndrome, which revolutionized the understanding of genetic mutations and their implications for various diseases, including cancer and autism spectrum disorders. Her work challenged the traditional “one-gene-one-disease” model, demonstrating that a single gene could influence a range of conditions.
Born in Singapore, Dr. Eng’s passion for human cancer genetics began at the age of 16. She pursued her education at the University of Chicago, where she completed both her MD and PhD at the Pritzker School of Medicine. She went on to receive postdoctoral training at Harvard’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the University of Cambridge, further honing her expertise.
At the Cleveland Clinic, Dr. Eng held several prestigious positions, including Global Director of Genomic Research Strategies and Chair of Medical Genetics and Genomics. She was the founder of the Center for Medical Genetics and Genomics and the PTEN Multidisciplinary Clinic and Center of Excellence, which have become global hubs for advanced genetic research and patient care.
In honor of her contributions, the PTEN Hamartoma Tumor Syndrome Foundation announced the establishment of the Dr. Charis Eng Memorial PTEN Scholarship, ensuring that her legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists and clinicians.
Tributes have poured in from colleagues, patients, and friends who remember Dr. Eng not only for her scientific achievements but also for her compassion and dedication to improving patient lives. Kristin, a former patient and friend, shared on Facebook, "She became more than my doctor, she was a friend, a mentor, and a remarkable woman who inspired greatness in everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her."
Dr. Eng’s influence extended far beyond her immediate circle, impacting countless lives through her research, teaching, and clinical work. Her legacy will endure in the programs she established, the trainees she mentored, and the patients whose lives she touched. As we remember her remarkable contributions to medicine, we are reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on the world.
Dr. Eng will be deeply missed, but her work will continue to inspire and guide the next generation of medical professionals and researchers.