Dr. Anand K. Ganesan is a distinguished physician-scientist and leading authority in dermatological research with specialized expertise in skin cancer and pigmentary disorders. He currently serves as Professor of Dermatology, Biological Chemistry, and Surgery at the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, while holding pivotal leadership roles including Vice Chair for Research in the Department of Dermatology and Associate Dean for Physician-Scientist Development. Dr. Ganesan earned dual doctoral degrees from the Medical College of Wisconsin, completing his MD in 2001 and PhD in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics in 1999, followed by clinical training through an internal medicine internship at St. Mary Medical Center and dermatology residency at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. This robust foundation in both laboratory science and clinical medicine has positioned him as a bridge between fundamental biological research and patient-centered dermatological care.
Dr. Ganesan's pioneering research has significantly advanced the scientific understanding of melanocyte biology, particularly how these specialized skin cells respond to environmental stressors such as ultraviolet radiation and inflammation to maintain normal homeostasis and how these processes become dysregulated in diseases like melanoma and vitiligo. His work spans the entire research continuum from basic molecular investigations to clinical applications, resulting in dozens of influential publications in high-impact medical journals that have shaped contemporary approaches to pigmentary disorders. Most notably, his laboratory's recent identification of a novel class of therapeutic compounds with potential applications for treating melanoma represents a significant translational breakthrough with promising clinical implications for cancer patients. This integrative research approach has established Dr. Ganesan as a thought leader who effectively connects molecular mechanisms with tangible clinical outcomes in dermatology.
Beyond his laboratory contributions, Dr. Ganesan has substantial impact through his leadership as Co-Director of the BIDD Program at the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and Director of Phototherapy in the Department of Dermatology at the University of California, Irvine, where he oversees innovative treatment protocols for complex skin conditions. He plays a critical role in shaping the future of academic medicine through his dedication to physician-scientist development, mentoring numerous trainees who have gone on to establish successful careers in dermatological research and practice. Dr. Ganesan's clinical work at UCI Health focuses on challenging cases of vitiligo, melasma, and other pigmentary disorders, where he directly applies his research findings to optimize patient outcomes. His current investigations continue to explore the molecular pathways governing skin pigmentation with the goal of developing more targeted, effective therapies for patients with recalcitrant dermatological conditions.
