Donald B. Kohn

Donald B. Kohn is a Professor at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), with appointments in the departments of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, and Molecular & Medical Pharmacology. He is a co-leader of the Center for Translational Technologies and actively affiliated with multiple research centers, including the Eli & Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cell Research and the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center (JCCC).

His research focuses on gene therapy for hematopoietic stem cell disorders, including severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), sickle cell disease, and cystic fibrosis. He specializes in lentiviral vectors, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, and ex vivo stem cell modification, with an emphasis on clinical translation and safety.

Recent publications highlight advancements in treating beta-hemoglobinopathies, immunodeficiencies, and genetic lung diseases, alongside explorations of vector mutagenesis risks and long-term patient outcomes. His work bridges basic science and clinical applications, aiming to improve therapeutic strategies for rare genetic disorders.