Thomas J. Belbin

Dr. Thomas J. Belbin is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pathology at Memorial University of Newfoundland. His research focuses on epigenetic mechanisms, particularly DNA methylation patterns in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). His work aims to identify molecular markers for early detection, prognosis, and targeted therapies, emphasizing HPV-driven tumors and anatomic site-specific signatures. Collaborations with institutions like Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have enabled advanced genomic/proteomic analyses.

Research Interests: Dr. Belbin’s lab investigates aberrant DNA methylation in tumor genomes to uncover epigenetic signatures linked to tumor behavior. Key areas include: (1) Identifying hypermethylated CpG islands in HNSCC subtypes, (2) Predicting treatment responses via molecular profiling, (3) Developing P16/HPV co-testing strategies for survival prediction, and (4) Exploring biomarkers like miR-375 and EZH2 in tumor metastasis. His work bridges basic science and clinical translation through multi-omic approaches.

Publications Highlight: Over 40 peer-reviewed articles (2002–2016) focus on epigenetic profiling, HPV associations, and therapeutic target validation. Notable contributions include identifying CDKN2A methylation patterns in cervical neoplasia (2016) and defining site-specific methylation loci in HNSCC (2013).

Collaborative Networks: Works closely with Prof. Marcin Prystowsky and Dr. Nicholas Schlecht on epigenetic mechanisms. Active in multi-institutional studies on HPV+ oropharyngeal cancers and clinical trial development for HDAC inhibitors like romidepsin.