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Richard  D.  Pearson
Degree(s): M.D.
Graduate School: University of Michigan
Primary Appointment: Professor of Medicine, Infectious Diseases and International Health
Research Interests:
Leishmaniasis, immunoparasitology

Email Address: rdp9g@virginia.edu
Research Description

Dr. Pearson in collaboration with Selma M.B. Jeronimo, M.D., Ph.D., Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil, and Mary E. Wilson, M.D., University of Iowa School of Medicine, and their colleagues has studied the immunogenetics, epidemiology and natural history of Leishmania chagasi infection and visceral leishmaniasis in residents of northeastern Brazil.  The majority of persons infected with L. chagasi develop protective, cell mediated Th1 responses to leishmanial antigens that result in asymptomatic, self-resolving infection.  A subset of infected persons fail to develop protective Th1 responses and progress to visceral leishmaniasis.  The collaborators are currently addressing the genetic correlates of infection using a family cohort.  Dr. Pearson has also participated in the development of novel approaches to antileishmanial chemotherapy.  Finally, he has worked with Janine Jagger, Ph.D., and her colleagues on the prevention of sharp object and needle stick injuries among medical workers.

Selected Publications
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    Contact Information
      Office Address: PO Box 800739, McKim Hall, Rm 1161, 
      Office Phone: +1 434-924-5579, +1 434-924-5242
      Fax Phone: +1 434-982-4073
      Home Phone: +1 434-296-2800

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