SUMMARY
Francis A. Farraye, M.D., M.S., investigates the management of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, with a particular focus on vaccination strategies for patients who are immunosuppressed. He speaks nationally and internationally on topics related to ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease and has written more than 450 peer-reviewed publications.
In addition to collaborating with colleagues across Mayo Clinic, Dr. Farraye and his team work with investigators at academic medical centers throughout the United States. The team's research examines the effects of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) activity and disease course, and Dr. Farraye has led multiple studies evaluating the comparative effectiveness of therapies for IBD.
Dr. Farraye collaborates with Luca Stocchi, M.D., in Mayo Clinic's Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery to study surgical outcomes in patients with IBD, including outcomes after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA).
Dr. Farraye serves as principal investigator for several industry-sponsored clinical trials, providing patients with refractory IBD access to investigational therapies.
Focus areas
- Efficacy and safety of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and shingles vaccines in patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
- Effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists on the natural history of IBD.
- Use of patients' own voices to identify medication treatment response for IBD.
- Novel treatments after IPAA surgery in patients with ulcerative colitis.
- Comparative effectiveness of therapies for IBD.
- Clinical trials of investigational therapies for IBD.
Significance to patient care
People with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease may be at higher risk of certain infections, especially when taking medicines that affect the immune system. Dr. Farraye's research helps healthcare professionals better understand how vaccinations can safely protect these patients from preventable illnesses. His team was among the first to report that GLP-1 medications may have benefits beyond weight loss and diabetes management, including possible positive effects on IBD.
He is doing exciting work using patients' own voices to measure disease activity and likelihood of responding to medical treatment. He also studies how different IBD treatments compare, helping patients and their healthcare teams make informed decisions about the therapies that may work best.
Professional highlights
- Health Care Professional Honoree, Central and Northeastern Florida Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, 2026.
- Top Doctor, Jacksonville Magazine, 2021-2026.
- Researcher of the Year, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic in Florida, 2023.
- Joan Cutler Lifetime Achievement Award, New England Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, 2020.
- Research Mentor of the Year, Department of Medicine, Boston University, 2013.