Research Program and Theme
- Program: Cancer Engineering and Biological Systems
- Themes: Mechanistic and Quantitative Biology
Research Focus
John Erdman studies how dietary changes, such as the consumption of tomato products, reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Tomatoes or lycopenes are often mentioned as foods or supplements that may have a positive impact on patients with prostate cancer. He evaluates the carotenoid lycopene, the main red color in tomatoes. His team uses ultrasound techniques for early detection of prostate cancer and tumor growth, as well as monitoring the development of non-alcoholic liver disease. He also studies how lutein, another carotenoid pigment, impacts brain development. Other areas of research interest are the biological effects of carotenoid metabolites and the influence of lutein and vitamin E on brain function.
Other Campus Affiliations
- Professor, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology
- Affiliate, Personalized Nutrition Initiative, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology