New Investigator Research Grant Program

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) remains one of the most challenging blood cancers to treat. A small population of leukemic stem cells often survives initial therapy, causing the cancer to return. While most research focuses on the genetic factors that drive these cancers to grow, we are taking the opposite approach by studying inherited genetic variants that protect individuals from leukemic progression.
We focus on a specific genetic locus present in a subset of individuals that significantly lowers the risk of developing leukemia. This inherited protection works by naturally reducing expression of a protein called MSI2, which leukemic stem cells rely on to survive and multiply. Strikingly, this natural defense works across many different genetic types of leukemia, suggesting it is a universal vulnerability for the disease.
In this project, we will use cutting-edge single-cell and long-read technology to look inside tens of thousands of individual blood cells from patients who carry this protective variant. Our goal is to create a high-resolution map of how this natural genetic "shield" slows down leukemic stem cells.

By monitoring how this process reshapes the life cycle of thousands of mRNA molecules in AML cells, we aim to identify the molecular footprints that universally reduce leukemic growth. This will enable us to better prioritize patient risk and, ultimately, develop new pharmacological strategies that mimic or induce this natural protective state for all patients.