Mark R. Frey

Mark R. Frey, PhD is a Professor of Pediatrics and Cancer Biology at the University of Southern California, serving as Admissions Chair for PIBBS (Program in Biomedical and Biological Sciences) and Director of the PhD Program in Biomedical and Biological Sciences. He leads the Mark R. Frey Lab, focused on the role of ErbB receptor tyrosine kinases in intestinal health and disease. His research investigates how ErbB4 and ErbB3 maintain intestinal epithelial barrier integrity during inflammation and injury, with implications for inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer.

Research Interests: Signal transduction, wound healing, inflammation, and oncogenesis. His work employs cell models, enteroids, and in vivo models of colitis-associated colon cancer and necrotizing enterocolitis. Key findings include the protective role of Neuregulin-4 in intestinal inflammation and the dual role of ErbB4 in both enhancing tumor survival and potentially serving as a therapeutic target.

Publications highlight advancements in understanding Wnt/β-catenin regulation, microbiota-derived butyrate effects, and mechanisms linking cytokines like IL-33 to epithelial repair. Despite no listed awards, his contributions to intestinal biology are recognized through high-impact journals. He oversees training programs and has mentored students in STEM initiatives during the pandemic. His lab’s future work includes exploring ErbB4’s therapeutic potential and inter-organ communication in disease contexts.