Pinghui Feng

Dr. Pinghui Feng is a distinguished Professor and Section Chair of Infection and Immunity at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry at the University of Southern California. With a profound commitment to advancing the understanding of viral replication and innate immune signaling pathways, Dr. Feng has dedicated his career to unraveling the complex interactions between viruses and the host immune system. His primary research focus is on the human oncogenic gamma herpesvirus, specifically Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), which is known for its role in cancer development. Dr. Feng's research has made significant strides in elucidating the mechanisms by which KSHV manipulates the host's immune defenses. His team has discovered that the virus exploits the MAVS-dependent innate immune pathway to facilitate its lytic replication while simultaneously suppressing the production of antiviral cytokines. This groundbreaking work has provided valuable insights into the viral strategies that undermine host immunity and contribute to pathogenesis. In addition to his research on KSHV, Dr. Feng is pioneering the development of animal models to investigate the role of innate immune signaling components in inflammation-driven oncogenesis. These models are crucial for understanding how chronic inflammation can lead to cancer, offering potential avenues for therapeutic intervention. His research endeavors are generously supported by grants from the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), and the American Cancer Society (ACS). Beyond his research contributions, Dr. Feng is deeply committed to education and mentorship. He actively mentors graduate and medical students, providing guidance and supervision to postdoctoral fellows and graduate students. His extensive experience in both research and teaching makes him an invaluable mentor, fostering the next generation of scientists and healthcare professionals. Dr. Feng's work not only advances scientific knowledge but also has the potential to impact clinical practices related to viral infections and cancer. His dedication to understanding the intricate dance between viruses and the immune system continues to inspire his colleagues and students alike, driving forward the field of infection and immunity.