Targeting Disease Persistence and Progression in Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN)

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are blood cancers driven by mutated hematopoietic stem cells that cause excessive myeloid cell growth. As no curative treatment currently exists, the DFG Research Unit 5659 investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying MPN persistence and progression to identify new targets for therapy. In our lab, we aim to decipher how integrin-mediated adhesion and signaling sustain MPN persistence. Using in vitro and in vivo mouse models, we study how niche interactions support treatment-persistent leukemic stem cells.