Mark Manzano

Mark Manzano, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) College of Medicine. His research focuses on functional genomics to study host-pathogen interactions, particularly in the context of Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV)-driven primary effusion lymphoma (PEL). He utilizes CRISPR-based approaches to identify host genetic dependencies and develop therapeutic strategies against this aggressive B-cell cancer.

Dr. Manzano completed his Ph.D. at Georgetown University and conducted postdoctoral research at Northwestern University. His lab integrates synthetic lethality screens, CRISPR-Cas13 systems, and small molecule inhibitor testing to uncover novel insights into oncogenic processes and host-virus interplay.

Research interests include understanding KSHV’s role in reprogramming host gene expression, identifying therapeutic targets for PEL, and exploring mechanisms of apoptosis regulation and metabolic changes in cancer cells. His work bridges functional genomics with clinical applications, aiming to translate laboratory findings into treatment options.

Awards and grants are not explicitly listed in the provided text. Dr. Manzano is actively mentoring students (Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., M.D., M.S.) and leads the Manzano Lab. His contributions span virology, oncology, and functional genomics, with a focus on viral oncogenesis and precision medicine.