5839 S. Maryland Ave. MC-4060
Chicago, IL 60637
07/12/2011

Mv research interest is focused on the genes that regulate normal HSC function in the bone marrow, and studying whether those genes may contribute to the development of leukemia when their expression is abnormal. I propose to utilize the zebrafish animal model as a unique discovery mechanism to uncover new genetic regulators of HSCs, and thereby new genes important for causing leukemia and other hematopoietic malignancies. As a physician-scientist, I am applying my expertise in hematopoiesis, immunology and cancer biology to a research program focusing on hematopoietic diseases that affect humans. This unique approach using zebrafish has the potential to find previously unidentified novel genes and target pathways important for HSC homing, expansion, engraftment, self-renewal and differentiation. Further evaluation in mammalian systems of the genes identified by the screen may lead to clinically relevant therapeutic targets for the prevention and treatment of hematologic malignancies and bone marrow failure syndromes, and new understanding about HSC homeostasis.