Researchers Identify the Hormone that Drives Fatigue After Cancer Radiation Therapy
Blocking β-endorphin with opiate antagonists may prevent this common side effect.
Contact Information
Boston, MAPhone: 617-643-5428
David E. Fisher, MD, PhD is an internationally known researcher, clinician and academic, who is Chief of the Massachusetts General Hospital Department of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts (USA). He also serves as Director of the MGH Cutaneous Biology Research Center and Director of the Melanoma Center at MGH. A Professor of Dermatology and of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Fisher came to the MGH from the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, where he previously Directed the Melanoma Program. Dr. Fisher's research has focused on understanding the molecular and genetic events which underlie formation of melanoma as well as skin pigmentation. As a clinician, he has worked to translate these understandings into advances in diagnosis, treatment and prevention of human diseases related to the skin and associated disorders. A graduate of Swarthmore College with a degree in Biology and Chemistry, Dr. Fisher is also an accomplished concert cellist and received a degree from the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. He received his PhD under Nobel Laureate Gunter Blobel at Rockefeller University and his Medical Degree at Cornell University Medical College under Dr. Henry Kunkel. Dr. Fisher's specialty training in Medicine, Pediatrics, and Oncology were carried out at Harvard Medical School. He recently served for three years as President of the Society for Melanoma Research, the largest international society dedicated to the study of melanoma.
Clinical Interests:
Treats:
Mass General Cancer Center: Hematology Oncology
55 Fruit St.
Boston, MA 02114
Phone: 617-643-5428
Fax: 617-643-6588
Medical Education
American Board Certifications
Note: This provider may accept more insurance plans than shown; please call the practice to find out if your plan is accepted.
Secure online access to your health information whenever you need it. Check appointments, communicate with your provider and pay bills online 24/7.
The Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Program was created to optimize the care, outcomes, and experiences of adolescent and young adult patients.
Mass General is recognized as a top hospital on the U.S. News Best Hospitals Honor Roll for 2024-2025.
Blocking β-endorphin with opiate antagonists may prevent this common side effect.
The team used these models to show that several topical drugs can cause the lesions to recede. One of the topical treatments protected against cancer development.
Human health records and studies of lab mice suggest that vitamin D levels influence the desire for opioids and sun-seeking behavior.
By mimicking the natural protection that exists in people with darker skin, scientists are gaining a better understanding of the biochemical process behind pigment production.
Kind. Compassionate. Giving. Thoughtful. Those are just a few of the accolades pulled from a lengthy list of attributes that family members use to describe Samuel Fisher—a son, brother and friend who made an indelible mark on the lives of those he encountered.
Study in red-haired mice uncovers mechanisms involved and suggests new treatment strategies for pain.