Elaine J Abrams

Elaine J. Abrams is a Professor of Epidemiology and Pediatrics at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. She holds a BS from Princeton University (1978) and an MD from Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons (1982). Her research focuses on HIV/AIDS and global health, particularly investigating the metabolic impacts of antiretroviral therapies like dolutegravir (DTG) in pregnant women and their children. She leads an NIH-funded study enrolling 1,900 pregnant women to examine pathways linking HIV/DTG use to maternal and child metabolic outcomes, including adiposity, dysglycemia, and dyslipidemia. This work employs advanced techniques like targeted metabolomics and nested substudies to dissect obesogenic mechanisms. Her research bridges clinical, epidemiological, and public health domains, aiming to reduce chronic comorbidities in women living with HIV and their offspring.

Education:

• BS, Princeton University, 1978
• MD, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, 1982

Research Highlights: Dr. Abrams’ NIH-funded study combines clinical cohort data with metabolomic analyses to explore how DTG use in pregnancy influences maternal postpartum metabolic health and child developmental outcomes. Key areas include adipose tissue dynamics, systemic inflammation, gut integrity, and energy expenditure. Findings could inform global HIV treatment guidelines and preventive strategies for metabolic disorders in vulnerable populations.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates within Columbia University’s Medical Center and Mailman School of Public Health networks, leveraging interdisciplinary teams in global health, epidemiology, and clinical research.