Research in the field of microbiome has largely focused on the beneficial effects of bacteria in regulating human health and disease. However, a role for viruses in supporting human health is unrecognized. We have uncovered a beneficial role for eukaryotic viruses in maintaining tissue health through cancer prevention in the skin. Using a novel mouse papillomavirus, we have determined the beneficial role of low-risk papillomaviruses and the immune response against them in protecting the skin against ultraviolet (UV)-induced squamous cell carcinoma. The widespread presence of commensal human papillomaviruses (HPVs) as normal flora and the ability of a competent immune system in adults to control these viruses provide a unique opportunity to exploit the interplay of commensal viruses, epithelial tumors and the immune system as novel therapeutic strategies

Shawn Demehri, M.D., Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Director, High Risk Skin Cancer Clinics
Associate Member, Broad Institute
Center for Cancer Immunology
Cutaneous Biology Research Center
Department of Dermatology and MGH Cancer Center
Massachusetts General Hospital
Harvard Medical School

Short Bio:

Shawn Demehri, MD, PhD is an Associate Professor at the Center for Cancer Immunology and Cutaneous Biology Research Center at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School. Dr. Demehri received his undergraduate degree in Biology from Washington State University. He completed medical degree (MD), PhD in Cell Biology in the laboratory of Dr. Raphael Kopan and dermatology residency training at Washington University in St. Louis. He conducted postdoctoral research in Immunology in the lab of Dr. Wayne Yokoyama at Washington University. Dr. Demehri is a physician-scientist performing basic science and translational research in the area of cancer immunology related to skin, breast and other epithelial cancers. His research is focused on determining the role of the immune system in maintaining normal tissue homeostasis and preventing the early stages of cancer development. Dr. Demehri is a recipient of several awards including American Academy of Dermatology Young Investigator Award, American Society for Clinical Investigation Young Physician-Scientist Award, NIH Director’s Early Independence Award, Burroughs Wellcome Fund Career Award for Medical Scientists, Breast Cancer Alliance Young Investigator Award, and Kimmel Scholar Award.

The recording can be found here.