Investigating the crosstalk between pre-BCR and IL-7R signaling in B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (A10)

• Subject Area: Immunology ; Hematology, Oncology
• Term: from 2016 to 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 217328187

B cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is characterized by abnormal expansion of transformed pro-/pre-B cells. In this project, we use primary samples from ALL patients and representative animal models to study the role of the interleukin 7 receptor (IL7R) in ALL. In addition, we address the question whether IL7R is required for the transformation of pro-/pre-B cells by known oncogenes. Moreover, we characterize the importance of other receptors such as CXCR4 or the pre-BCR, which are expressed on precursor B cells, for IL7R-mediated transformation.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1074: Experimental Models and Clinical Translation in Leukemia
• Applicant Institution: Universität Ulm
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Hassan Jumaa, since 7/2020