Novel Agents for the Treatment of Malignancies

Project Abstract (200 words or less): This proposal aims to define the Type I interferon response mechanisms that occur in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). This project will combine the expertise of three laboratories with substantial experience and definitively address the mechanisms of action of IFN in MPN. The results of these studies will address a major roadblock in developing more specific and effective agents for the treatment of MPNs. This team will identify promising therapeutic targets to prepare for further research in drug development. Although interferon alpha (IFN) is the most active agent for the treatment of these diseases, the molecular mechanisms this cytokine uses to induce remission remain largely unknown. The failure to establish the mechanisms of action of interferons after many years of work by several research groups reflects the complexity of the cellular responses during interferon engagement or growth factor receptors on malignant stem cells.