My lab focuses on studying the DNA damage response pathway and development/progression of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).
DNA damage responses are important in maintaining genetic stability in eukaryotic cells. Because many tumor suppressor proteins including ATM, ATR, MDC1, RNF8, RNF168, RAP80, BRCA1, and BRCA2 are involved in the DNA damage pathway, the complete understanding of this pathway is important in preventing neoplastic transformation. So, our laboratory’s goal is to understand the inherent genetic stability and molecular mechanisms of tumorigenesis by studying DNA damage signaling pathways. CML study is the second project in my Lab. My Lab has focused on identifying genes that are resistant to the tyrosine kinase inhibitor of CML. In addition, we are studying the molecular mechanisms of the discovered genes and applying them to CML patients. The aim of this research project is to ultimately contribute to the treatment and diagnosis of chronic myelogenous leukemia.