Overview

Dr. Erlich's research involves the analysis of human genetic variation and genetic predisposition to a variety of diseases, focusing on autoimmune diseases and, in particular, on type 1 diabetes. The prediction and, ultimately, the prevention of type 1 diabetes is a major goal. He pioneered the development of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and its application to genetic analysis, starting with the diagnosis of sickle cell anemia and the first forensics application of DNA testing in the United States (1986). An ongoing research interest is the analysis of polymorphism in HLA genes and the development of HLA typing tests for class I and class II loci for tissue typing and transplantation, disease susceptibility, anthropological genetics, and individual identification. His research interests also include the molecular evolution and population genetics of HLA genes. Recently, Erlich and his colleagues have used multiplex PCR and genetic typing with immobilized probe arrays to examine the genetics of common complex diseases, such as cardiovascular disease.

Erlich is also Director of Human Genetics and Vice-President of Discovery Research at Roche Molecular Systems in Alameda, California.