Research
The Abbas Lab focuses on acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a particularly deadly form of leukemia, to better understand its underlying biology and develop innovative therapeutic strategies. We leverage state-of-the-art technologies and multidisciplinary approaches to study AML in a biologically relevant setting using patient samples and within clinical trials. Click to see more information on:
Topics of Interest
Reconstituting immunologic control in AML
The immune system plays a critical role in controlling and eliminating cancer cells, but leukemic cells often evade immune surveillance. Our lab focuses on deciphering the complex interactions between leukemic cells and the immune system to identify strategies for reconstituting immunologic control. By investigating the molecular pathways that regulate immune evasion and characterizing the functional properties of immune cells in the context of leukemia, we aim to develop novel immunotherapies that can enhance anti-leukemic immunity and improve patient outcomes.
Inflammation and AML
Chronic inflammation is a known driver of cancer development and progression, including leukemias. Our lab is investigating the role of inflammation in AML pathogenesis, with a particular emphasis on the molecular and cellular mechanisms that link inflammation to leukemic transformation and disease progression. By dissecting these mechanisms, we hope to identify novel therapeutic targets that can disrupt the pro-tumorigenic effects of inflammation and provide new treatment options for AML patients.
Venetoclax resistance in AML
Venetoclax is a targeted therapy for multiple leukemia subtypes, but resistance to this treatment can emerge and limit its efficacy. Our lab is dedicated to understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying venetoclax resistance in leukemia. Through comprehensive genomic and functional analyses, we are identifying key factors that drive resistance and working to develop new therapeutic strategies to overcome this challenge.
AML with deletion in chromosome 7/7q
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients with deletions in chromosome 7 or 7q often exhibit poor prognosis and high rates of treatment resistance. Our lab is committed to understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the aggressive nature of these AML subtypes. We are employing advanced genomic and functional assays to identify the key drivers of disease progression and resistance to develop targeted therapies that can improve patient outcomes in this population.
Major Tools and Models
Clinical observations and patient samples
Our research is rooted in the clinical and translational realm, with a strong emphasis on using leukemia patient samples obtained under research protocols. These invaluable samples, ranging from suspension samples, RNA, DNA, and sera to paraffin-embedded tissues, are pivotal for decoding the intricacies of therapy resistance and treatment responses.
Patient-derived xenografts repository
Boasting a collection of over 100 PDX models, our laboratory is at the forefront of mirroring human leukemogenesis within mice. These models serve as a crucial platform for assessing drug impacts and exploring the dynamics of resistance and immune interactions derived directly from patient samples.
Cell line exploration
Utilizing a variety of cell lines, our lab conducts comprehensive co-culture assays and harnesses functional genomics. This approach facilitates a deeper understanding of pivotal genes and pathways, propelling our research in leukemia forward.
Multimodal computational analysis
Our team excels in comprehensive computational analysis, dissecting the genetic, epigenetic, and immune landscapes of leukemia. Leveraging our extensive in-house data—ranging from single-cell analyses (scRNA, scTCR, scBCR, scATAC), bulk genomics and transcriptomics, to high-throughput proteomics and metabolomics—we strive to unlock the molecular underpinnings of this disease.
Advanced spatial profiling
We have fine-tuned several cutting-edge spatial technologies specifically for bone marrow tissue applications, enabling us to dissect the intricate architecture of leukemias. Our arsenal includes DSP GEOMx, Spatial CyTOF, Lunaphore, and Visium technologies.
Immune cell functionality in leukemia
A core focus of our inquiry is the functional assessment of T-cell activity within leukemia contexts. Our goal is to develop robust co-culture assays and in vivo models that will allow us to delineate the functionality of various immune subsets in combating leukemia.