Research Unit: Signal transduction in myeloid malignancies
PI: Armin Zebisch
Focus: Myeloid leukemias are devastating hematologic cancers with a dismal prognosis in affected patients. Our work on myeloid leukemias is multifaceted. In the experimental-translational part, we aim to delineate the molecular basis of myeloid leukemia development and use this knowledge to design novel treatment approaches. A key focus of our research is the role of RAS-oncogenes, which are potent drivers of leukemia development and frequently mutated in human myeloid leukemia patients. In addition, we operate a large leukemia biobank. This biobank serves as a valuable resource, allowing us to collect and archive high-quality specimens of patients with myeloid leukemias. These samples are then used for our experimental-translational research and shared in national and international cooperations, enhancing the potential impact of our work. Finally, we conduct clinical trials on myeloid leukemias, aiming to bridge preclinical knowledge into the development of novel treatment approaches.
Network: We are located at the Division of Hematology, the Division of Pharmacology, and the Center for Medical Research (ZMF) for the experimental-translational part of our research. This setting enables direct interaction with both basic and clinical scientists. Moreover, the team actively collaborates with renowned national and international experts. Our research covers the whole spectrum of preclinical and clinical leukemia research, including studies in genetically engineered leukemia mouse models and leukemic cell lines, where we perform cutting-edge techniques, such as CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. Importantly, our research also provides a strong translational aspect as we extend our work to primary human leukemia patient specimens. Another focus of our group is leukemia biobanking, where we collect and archive high-quality patient specimens of myeloid leukemias. Therefore, we are closely connected to the Med Uni Graz Biobank. Finally, we perform clinical trials on myeloid leukemias at the Division of Hematology and benefit from the clinical trial infrastructure at this department. We are also collaborating with national and international partners from academic study groups and the pharmaceutical industry.
