Jerome Zack

Jerome Zack is a Professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), with a dual appointment in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics. His research focuses on HIV pathogenesis, gene therapy, and immunology, particularly strategies to eradicate latent HIV reservoirs using "kick and kill" approaches and engineered immunity. He employs humanized mouse models extensively to study viral dynamics and immune interventions.

Education:

• BS, Biology, UC Irvine (1976)
• MS, Medical Microbiology, Cal State Long Beach (1980)
• PhD, Immunology, UT Health Science Center (1987)

Zack's research spans HIV latency reversal via PKC modulators, natural killer (NK) cell engineering, and CAR-T cell therapy. His work explores how synthetic compounds and immune cell modifications target latent HIV, aiming for functional cures. Recent studies analyze epigenetic patterns in reservoir persistence and preclinical drug evaluation.

His publications (2018-2025) highlight advancements in latency-reversing agents, NK cell interactions, and CAR-T cell applications. Grants include NIH R01 awards for HIV reservoir targeting, stem cell engineering, and mechanisms of latency reversal.

Scientific Awards:

• Distinguished Alumnus, CSULB (2011)
• NIH Merit Award (1998)
• Elizabeth Glazer Scientist Award (1996-2001)

His laboratory investigates HIV eradication strategies, focusing on immune system engineering and humanized mouse models. Current projects include defining factors controlling HIV rebound, latency reversal with PKC modulators, and stem cell-based therapies for viral and oncological diseases.