Tamil Chair, Inc. pledges $1.5 million to establish endowed chair at Hollings Cancer Center

The Tamil Chair, Inc., a philanthropic organization dedicated to advancing higher education and biomedical research, has pledged $1.5 million to MUSC Hollings Cancer Center to establish the Thirumoolar Tamil Chair for Integrative Therapies (TACIT) Endowed Chair in Radiation Medicine, designed to support basic and clinical research in integrative oncology interventions.

The Tamil Chair’s first gift of $100,000 will kick-start the establishment of this important chair, aimed at integrating innovative therapeutic approaches in radiation medicine. By fostering cutting-edge research, TACIT will support the development of new integrative therapies such as yogic breathing to improve patient outcomes and further strengthen Hollings Cancer Center’s status as a leader in cancer research and care.

“We are proud to support MUSC Hollings Cancer Center in advancing the radiation medicine field with integrative therapies,” said Vijay Janakiraman, M.D., president of the Tamil Chair, Inc. “This gift aligns with our mission to support groundbreaking initiatives in biomedical science and higher education globally.”

Janakiraman added that the foundation was inspired to make this commitment after learning about the work of Hollings Cancer Center researcher Sundar Balasubramanian, Ph.D., a cell biologist investigating the molecular mechanisms of yogic breathing, the benefits of which can include boosting the immune system, reducing pain and anxiety, improving sleep quality, and reducing negative side effects during cancer treatment.

The Thirumoolar Tamil Chair for Integrative Therapies will focus on research that combines traditional and modern approaches to oncology, offering a holistic and patient-centered perspective to radiation therapy. The chair will encourage cross-disciplinary collaboration and contribute to developing novel, integrative therapies that can enhance the effectiveness and quality of life for cancer patients.

“We are deeply grateful for this support that will propel innovative research in radiation medicine,” said Raymond N. DuBois, M.D., Ph.D., director of Hollings Cancer Center. “It’s an exciting step forward for our institution, the field and, ultimately, patients.”

About Tamil Chair, Inc.:

Tamil Chair, Inc. is a global philanthropic organization focused on promoting higher education, scientific research and social initiatives with a focus on promoting research into Tamil language, one of the seven classical languages of the world, and culture. For more information about Tamil Chair, Inc., and its commitment to education, please visit tamilchair.org.