Dr. Akos Herzeg is a perinatologist (a specialist in caring for patients with high-risk pregnancies) who has a particular interest in complex maternal-fetal conditions. He performs fetal surgeries and in utero molecular treatments to address both anatomic and genetic conditions. His expertise spans the health concerns of both mother and fetus throughout pregnancy, with a focus on complicated monochorionic twins (identical twins who share a placenta); complex multiple gestations; and neurological conditions, such as spina bifida.
In his research, Herzeg investigates fetal genetic conditions, aiming to develop targeted protein- and gene-based therapies for use both before and after birth. He has a particular goal to advance fetal molecular therapies for lysosomal storage disorders (inherited metabolic conditions that allow toxins to accumulate in cells), which is the subject of a clinical trial known as the PEARL Trial.
Herzeg earned his medical degree from Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Romania. At Heidelberg University in Germany, he completed a residency in obstetrics, gynecology and gynecological oncology, followed by a fellowship in maternal-fetal medicine and fetal therapies. He holds a master of business administration degree, with a focus on managing centers of health care excellence, from the Johns Hopkins Carey Business School and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.
Herzeg led the development and clinical oversight of Heidelberg University's center for fetal surgery. He has served as chief strategy officer for the UCSF Broad Stem Cell Center.
In 2019, Herzeg organized a hike up Mount Kilimanjaro with Frankfurt School colleagues to support the Fetal Development Initiative in Tanzania, a project that trains care providers in the Kilimanjaro area in high-risk obstetrics, maternal-fetal medicine and fetal ultrasound. He is also involved in creating sustainable health care programs and improving access to emergency obstetric care in Tajikistan.
