Keito Hoshitsuki, PharmD is The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics Highlighted Trainee Author for the December 2020 issue.   He is a PhD student in clinical pharmaceutical sciences at the University of Pittsburgh under the mentorship of Dr. Christian Fernandez, assistant professor of pharmaceutical sciences. The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics article that earned him selection as a Highlighted Trainee Author is titled “Adalimumab Immunogenicity is Negatively Correlated with Anti-Hinge Antibody Levels in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis” and is available at https://doi.org/10.1124/jpet.120.000179.

Dr. Hoshitsuki’s area of research is in clinical and translational pharmacogenomics, immunology, and metabolism. His current research involves characterizing the mechanisms involved in the immunologic and metabolic toxicities related to protein therapeutics, specifically that of the drug asparaginase used in the treatment of acute leukemias and adalimumab used in treatment of rheumatologic diseases.

The anticipated impact of Dr. Hoshitsuki’s research is that elucidating the mechanisms and involved pathways related to protein therapeutics will identify potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate these toxicities. The long-term goal is to improve therapy and outcomes for patients receiving protein therapeutics by reducing treatment-related toxicity and restoring efficacy.

When not in the lab, Keito enjoys traveling, being involved in faith-based activities, spending quality time with family and friends, and trying new restaurants and recipes.