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Targeting the interaction of leukemia stem cells with their niche to treat myelofibrosis

Bone marrow scar formation (fibrosis) is a hallmark of myelofibrosis and contributes significantly to the disease progression. We use mouse genetics to model myelofibrosis and understand the cellular and molecular makeup of the diseased microenvironment. We aim to understand the composition and alteration of the bone marrow microenvironment in myelofibrosis. This may provide novel therapeutic targets for myelofibrosis.

Cotargeting oncogenic protein translation and apoptosis in acute myeloid leukemia

The focus of my research is to evaluate the efficacy of and to unravel the molecular mechanisms underpinning a novel drug combination in AML targeting oncogenic protein translation and apoptosis. We will utilize genetic perturbation and other orthogonal approaches, including in vitro and ex vivo assays, and in vivo AML PDX models. The goal of my research is to transform the clinical management of AML patients, particularly for relapsed and difficult-to-treat subgroups.

Dissecting the heterogeneity of leukemic and pre-leukemic clonal expansion to identify genes associated with leukemia relapse and genesis

My research investigates the heterogeneity of leukemic and pre-leukemic clonal expansion to identify genes associated with leukemia relapse and genesis. Contrary to conventional studies analyzing cell mixtures, my research uniquely probes the specific cells underlying leukemia development. We expect to identify the key cellular and molecular events that drive leukemia onset and relapse. These findings will help improve diagnosis and can serve as new therapeutic targets for treating leukemia.

Surviving ALL: An Intimate Look at How Cancer Affected the Careers, Relationships & Fertility of Four Young Adults

A cancer diagnosis is a devastating blow for people of all ages, but presents special challenges for young adults. This period of life is usually a time of transition as they are embarking on journeys such as school, relationships and careers. A cancer diagnosis can bring their lives to a screeching halt in the midst of these new adventures.

Azacitidine

Vidaza® is FDA approved to treat

  • Adult patients with the following FAB myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) subtypes: Refractory anemia (RA) or refractory anemia with ringed sideroblasts (RARS) (if accompanied by neutropenia or thrombocytopenia or requiring transfusions), refractory anemia with excess blasts (RAEB), refractory anemia with excess blasts in transformation (RAEB-T), and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMMoL). (1.1) 
  • Pediatric patients aged 1 month and older with newly diagnosed Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia (JMML). 

 

Leveraging Susceptible Populations and Unique Resources in a Pathway to Prevention of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

The focus of my research is to understand the causes and early-life origins of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). We use a two-pronged approach: 1) conducting epidemiological studies of ALL in susceptible populations to understand genetic predisposition, and 2) investigating the in utero origins of ALL across subtypes. Our goals are to identify children at the highest risk of developing ALL through genetic screening and to lay the groundwork for precision prevention strategies.

Deciphering the interplay between apoptotic and signaling pathways to target T-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia

T-ALL is an aggressive leukemia with limited treatment options. T-ALL cells resist to dying by suppressing their suicide pathways. BH3 mimetics reactivate the suicide mechanisms to induce cell death. We showed that these drugs are effective in T-ALL, but acquired resistance is due to the activation of growth-promoting signaling pathways. The proposed experiments will decipher the relationship between growth and death pathways, identifying unique combination therapies to improve disease outcomes.

T cells with native and chimeric receptors against multiple tumor targets for acute myeloid leukemia

Adoptive T cell therapies for acute myeloid leukemia face numerous hurdles such as limited target antigens, immunosuppressive tumor environment as well as the loss of efficacy due to downregulation of the targeted antigen. The goal of our project is to address some of these challenges with a single T cell product targeting multiple tumor associated antigens that have limited expression on healthy tissues via a novel combination of native T cell receptor and gene engineered CAR targeting.

Improving CAR T-cell Therapy Efficacy in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia by Optimizing Design and Placement

Pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) that is resistant to standard therapy is a challenge that has been partially overcome by T-cell therapy, yet relapse still occurs in up to 50%. We are conducting two clinical trials that test a next-generation T-cell therapy and the first incorporation of T-cell therapy into initial therapy. These trials will inform future development and the optimal place for this therapy with the goal of improving cure rates for children with very high risk ALL.