Thomas M. Petro

Thomas M. Petro is a Professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) in the Department of Oral Biology, part of the College of Dentistry. He is affiliated with the Nebraska Center for Virology and the Bioregulation Group. His primary research focuses on molecular immunobiology, particularly investigating cell signaling pathways in macrophage polarization and cytokine production to develop novel therapeutics for viral infections and chronic inflammatory diseases.

Education:

• BS in Microbiology, Ohio State University
• MS in Microbiology, Miami University
• PhD in Immunology/Microbiology, Miami University
• Postdoctoral Fellowship in Immunology/Nutrition, Purdue University

Research Interests: Dr. Petro employs advanced molecular techniques to explore immune mechanisms underlying viral pathogenesis and inflammatory conditions. His studies aim to uncover therapeutic targets for diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), and melanoma, with a focus on cytokine regulation and interferon response factors.

Grants and Funding:

• Co-Principal Investigator: Stuart Nichols ALS Foundation Grant ($50,000, 2018–2023)
• Principal Investigator: NIH/CoBRE Grant on Melanoma Immune Response ($100,000, 2014–2017)
• Co-Investigator: NIH-Nebraska Center for Virology Grant on Mental Disorders and Chloroviruses ($99,800, 2013–2016)

Teaching: He directs courses like Introduction to Immunology and Oral/Medical Microbiology, and instructs biomedical science reviews at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Collaborations: Active participation in interdisciplinary research groups such as the Nebraska Center for Virology and Bioregulation Group highlights his commitment to advancing virology, immunology, and cell signaling research.