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Thomas R. O'Brien, M.D., M.P.H.

Senior Investigator

Thomas R. O'Brien, M.D., M.P.H.

Thomas R. O'Brien, M.D., M.P.H.

Organization:National Cancer Institute
Division of Cancer Epidemiology & Genetics, Infections and Immunoepidemiology Branch
Address:NCI Shady Grove
Room 6E108
Phone:240-276-7104
E-mail:obrient@mail.nih.go

Biography

Dr. O'Brien received undergraduate and medical degrees from the University of Michigan, and an M.P.H. from the Harvard School of Public Health. He was an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer and Medical Epidemiologist with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 1985 to 1992, when he joined NCI. Dr. O'Brien's primary research interests involve studies on the transmission and natural history of oncogenic viruses, including human immunodeficiency virus type 1, hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus.

Research Interests

My research program targets viruses that cause cancer, especially hepatitis C virus, through interdisciplinary studies that emphasize human genetics. I focus on studies that may translate into clinical or public health benefits. Some recent work includes development of the first genotype-based clinical decision model for treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C and a study linking expression of HLA-DPA1 and HLA-DPB1 to the risk of developing chronic hepatitis B. Currently, I am working with a trans-disciplinary group of investigators to refine understanding of the genetic basis for spontaneous HCV clearance and response to treatment for chronic hepatitis C.

Information for Journalists

To request an interview with a DCEG investigator, contact the NCI Office of Media Relations:

E-mail:
ncipressofficers@mail.nih.gov

Phone: 301-496-6641