Development of leukemia stem cell-targeted therapy utilizing the power of innate immunity

Using various mouse leukemia models and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, we have studied the characteristics of leukemia stem cells, which are at the root of leukemia initiation and relapse. Recently, we have shown the importance of innate immunity, including NK cells, in destroying leukemia stem cells. We are currently investigating the molecules that suppress the anti-tumor effects of innate immunity using in vivo CRISPR/Cas9 library screens. We are also developing new experimental systems to evaluate the relationship between leukemia progression and innate immunity.

Transcription factors and epigenetic factors play a central role in the development and progression of hematopoietic tumors. However, many of them are considered "undruggable" molecules for which inhibitors are difficult to develop. Using the latest technology to regulate protein-protein interactions, protein degraders to induce degradation of target proteins, and methods to directly target leukemia-associated RNAs, we are developing novel therapeutics that target transcriptional and epigenomic factors that are currently difficult to target.

Transcription factors and epigenetic factors play a central role in the development and progression of hematopoietic tumors. However, many of them are considered "undruggable" molecules for which inhibitors are difficult to develop. Using the latest technology to regulate protein-protein interactions, protein degraders to induce degradation of target proteins, and methods to directly target leukemia-associated RNAs, we are developing novel therapeutics that target transcriptional and epigenomic factors that are currently difficult to target.

Blood cell regulation to achieve healthy aging

Blood cells, which circulate throughout the body, affect the functions of many organs and are involved in the onset and progression of various diseases. By analyzing "clonal hematopoiesis", which is often observed in healthy elderly people, we have clarified the mechanisms by which blood cell abnormalities promote the development of various diseases, such as solid tumors and cardiovascular diseases. Based on these findings, we are developing methods to achieve healthy aging through blood cell regulation.