معرفی
Jiafen Hu, MSc, PhD is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Division of Experimental Pathology at Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine. She holds joint appointments at the Penn State Cancer Institute and the Center for Cannabis and Natural Product Pharmaceuticals (CCNPP).
Dr. Hu's research focuses on papillomavirus infections, particularly human papillomavirus (HPV) and its role in cancer development. Her work spans several key areas including:
- Mechanisms of papillomavirus-associated carcinogenesis
- Interactions between cannabis compounds and HPV infections
- Effects of tobacco smoke on molecular targets in oral cancer
- Development of DNA vaccine technologies
- Understanding co-infection models for papillomavirus-associated diseases
Her recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on the intersection of virology, immunology, and cancer biology, with particular attention to how environmental factors like cannabis and tobacco influence viral pathogenesis and cancer development. Dr. Hu's work has significant implications for cancer prevention strategies, particularly for HPV-related cancers.
Dr. Hu has been principal investigator on several significant research grants:
- National Cancer Institute: "A co-infection model for papillomavirus associated infections and cancers" (2023-2024)
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: "The role of chronic cannabis and its two major psychoactive ingredients in papillomavirus-associated oropharyngeal disease" (2019-2021)
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases: "Role of estrous cycle and contraceptives in anogenital papillomavirus infection" (2016-2019, as Co-PI)
Her research is conducted through the Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis program at the Penn State Cancer Institute and in collaboration with the Center for Cannabis and Natural Product Pharmaceuticals, where she investigates the complex interactions between natural compounds, viral infections, and cancer development.
