Paul Zhang, MD, PhD

Paul Zhang, M.D., Ph.D., is the esteemed founder of the Institute of Integrative BioOncology and the Omega Precision Oncology Clinic (OPOC). A committed physician-scientist, he is board-certified in both medical oncology and integrative and holistic medicine. With over twenty years of clinical experience, Dr. Zhang specializes in the medical treatment of solid malignancies and is a renowned advocate for evidence-based, comprehensive, and integrative approaches to cancer treatment and health restoration. He is a devoted member of the Society of Integrative Oncology and the International Society of Immunotherapy.

In 2008, Dr. Zhang was honored as one of “America’s Top Physicians,” recognizing his exceptional expertise and significant contributions to the field. He is particularly known for his groundbreaking work in cancer stem cells, off-label medicines, and cancer metabolism. His pioneering research in DMSO’s effectiveness in inducing apoptosis across a range of cancers led to the development of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors, such as Zolinza (vorinostat), introducing them as a novel class of drugs for inducing cancer differentiation and cell death. Additionally, Dr. Zhang has played a crucial role in defining the growth requirements of cancer stem cells, notably discovering that tumor stromal fibroblasts serve as feeder cells for cancer stem cells. His discovery has established FGF as an essential factor in all cancer stem cell growth.

Dr. Zhang began his medical journey with degrees from Hebei Medical University and Beijing University. He further enhanced his medical expertise through a Medical Residency at Columbia University and a Medical Oncology Fellowship at Yale University. His scientific training continued at prestigious institutions, including the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) and the Moffitt Cancer Center. As an assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine, he was instrumental in developing innovative anti-cancer treatments using off-label medicines. Dr. Zhang’s profound expertise and unwavering dedication to oncology have greatly advanced the field, providing new hope and innovative treatment options to patients battling cancer.


Education and Credentials:

Clinical Fellowship: Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
Cancer Research Fellowship: Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
Internal Medicine Residency: Columbia University, New York, NY
Medical Acupuncture Certificate: Helms Institute at Stanford Medical School, Stanford, CA

Academia:

Former Assistant Professor of Medicine: Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX