Jianjun Chen, PhD

Jianjun Chen, PhD

The Role and Targets of APL-specific miRNAs in Leukemogenesis

Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and is characterized by an excess of immature cells called promyelocytes, a form of white blood cells. Dr. Chen has recently found that a set of small RNAs, namely microRNAs, are specifically overexpressed in APL. With the support from Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation, Dr. Chen’s lab will investigate the role of those APL-specific microRNAs in the development of APL leukemia and to determine their critical target genes and relevant pathways. These studies may provide valuable targets for the development of future treatment strategies, which may lead to more effective therapy for leukemias, particularly APL leukemia.