‘Father of Tamoxifen,’ the revolutionary cancer drug, dies at 76

Dr. V. Craig Jordan, a prominent pharmacologist based in Houston, has passed away at the age of 76, according to the MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr. Jordan's groundbreaking research in breast cancer treatment has left an indelible mark on the field of oncology. He was instrumental in the discovery and development of Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs), revolutionizing the treatment options available to women battling cancer.

One of Dr. Jordan's most notable achievements was demonstrating the efficacy of tamoxifen, a drug originally designed to inhibit estrogen and prevent pregnancies, in the fight against breast cancer. His pioneering work earned him the title "father of tamoxifen." Tamoxifen works by binding to estrogen receptors in breast tissue, thereby blocking the hormone's ability to promote the growth of cancer cells. This discovery transformed tamoxifen into a crucial weapon against hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, providing a life-saving option for countless patients.

Tamoxifen has since become a standard treatment for breast cancer, significantly improving the prognosis for many women. Its ability to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and increase survival rates has made it a cornerstone of breast cancer therapy. Dr. Jordan's contributions to medical science have profoundly impacted the lives of those affected by breast cancer, offering hope and a path to recovery.