Young S. Hahn

Young S. Hahn is a Professor in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. His research focuses on the immunoregulatory mechanisms of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, particularly how the virus manipulates host immunity to establish chronic infection and promote liver disease. He leads an active research program investigating exosome-mediated immune suppression, macrophage and NK cell regulation, and the development of fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Education:

• BA in Biochemistry, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
• PhD in Molecular Biology, California Institute of Technology
• Postdoctoral Training in Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine

Dr. Hahn’s research interests span immunology, microbiology, infectious diseases, biodefense, biotechnology, and neuroimmunology. His work centers on immune regulation during HCV infection and chronic liver inflammation, with a strong emphasis on exosome signaling, T cell dysfunction, and macrophage polarization. He investigates how HCV-infected hepatocytes release exosomes containing TGF-beta to suppress T cell responses and how this contributes to liver fibrosis.

His recent publications reveal a consistent focus on viral immunology, host-pathogen interactions, and liver immunopathology. Themes include exosome biology, immunometabolism, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and innate lymphoid cell function. His work bridges basic immunology with translational applications in chronic liver disease and cancer.

Dr. Hahn has not been explicitly mentioned as receiving scientific awards in the provided text.

He actively mentors students and researchers, as evidenced by numerous co-authored publications with junior scientists. While specific grant details are not listed, his sustained research output and laboratory activity suggest ongoing external funding. His work involves collaborations across immunology, hepatology, and virology disciplines.

His research is conducted within the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology at UVA, likely involving a dedicated laboratory team focused on viral immunology and liver disease mechanisms. The lab employs molecular, cellular, and immunological techniques to dissect host responses to HCV and related pathogens.