Faculty Awards 2021: Kenneth Sherman

“The idea of being a physician-scientist is one that I derive a great deal of satisfaction from,” explains Sherman, who sees patients from UC Medical Center, West Chester Hospital and the Cincinnati VA. “I am not just able to care for patients, but I can ask the tough questions and then use my skillset to find answers. I am able to go to leading experts in the world for collaboration to promote discovery in the field. As a result, I am able to provide the highest level of care to my patients. The University of Cincinnati has provided a venue where I can do that successfully.”

Sherman’s research focuses on viral hepatitis epidemiology, natural history, immunopathogenesis, diagnostics and treatment. HIs research has been among a number of ‘firsts’ including providing evidence during the mid-1990s that Hepatitis C (HCV) infection was a major factor in the development of liver disease in individuals living with HIV. He published the first evidence that HCV viral loads were higher in those with HIV than those with HCV alone. 

Sherman applied mathematical modeling and laboratory studies to demonstrate why this might occur and how treatment would affect hepatitis C outcomes. This pioneering work played a major role in the development of the concept of ‘response-guided therapy’ tested in a multicenter, multinational clinical trial that helped lay the groundwork for FDA approval of the first direct-acting antiviral for HCV treatment. Sherman continues to publish groundbreaking work to advance our understanding and treatment of Hepatitis B, C and E.

Sherman says he was surprised and honored to be named recipient of the Distinguished Research Professor Award. “I know the University of Cincinnati only awards one of these in the STEM disciplines per year,” says Sherman. “This is a large institution with a large number of very accomplished faculty members. This was indeed an honor.”

Featured image at top of Kenneth Sherman, MD, PhD/Colleen Kelley/UC Creative + Brand.