Mohammed S. Orloff

Mohammed S. Orloff, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) within the Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health. His research focuses on understanding the interplay of genetic and epigenetic factors in disease pathways, particularly cancers such as breast, lung, and esophageal adenocarcinoma. He employs integrated 'omics approaches, including next-generation sequencing, to study populations with diverse ethnic backgrounds, especially in rural Arkansas communities.

Educational Background

• Ph.D. in Genetic and Molecular Epidemiology, Case Western Reserve University (2005)
• M.S. in Biotechnology (1994)
• B.S. in Chemistry, Botany, and Zoology (1992)

Research Interests

Dr. Orloff investigates genomic and epigenomic factors influencing cancer risk, with a focus on lung cancer mutations, Barrett's esophagus, and gastric precancerous processes. His work integrates machine learning and environmental exposure analyses to identify risk factors and biomarkers. Recent projects include studying crop burning's impact on respiratory diseases in rural Arkansas and evaluating dietary salt's role in gastric carcinogenesis.

Teaching

He teaches epidemiology courses, including Lab Methods in Epidemiology, Genomics/Genetic Epidemiology, and Directed Research Studies.

Recent Research Highlights

His publications span 2011–2020, emphasizing cancer genetics, environmental health, and molecular pathways. Key areas include lung cancer biomarkers, PARP1 regulation in toxin-exposed tissues, and germline mutations in syndromic cancer predisposition.

Grants & Projects

• Principal Investigator (PI): Screening for mutations in non-small cell lung cancer genes in Arkansas populations (Seeds of Science)
• Systematic genomic integration for lung-associated diseases

Labs/Teams

His research is conducted in collaboration with UAMS labs and interdisciplinary teams, focusing on translational oncology and public health interventions.