Our research is focused on lymphocyte proliferative disorders. We have identified a novel diagnostic entity of clonal B lymphocytosis and chromosomal translocation t(2;7) linking CDK6 to IGK locus in B-cell neoplasia. As part of NSERC Strategic network, we have been developing nanoparticle probes for targeting leukemia cells.
Molecular and cellular mechanisms of lymphoproliferative disorders. We contributed to the characterization of clonal B lymphocytosis as a novel diagnostic entity. We are focused on clinical, phenotypical, molecular and cytogenetic features of the non-CLL type clonal lymphocytosis of undetermined significance and clonal progression from benign lymphocytosis to clinical malignancies. We perform immunophenotypic study and demonstrated essential CD5 expression to separate it from chronic lymphocytic leukemia and largely clarified the controversy on CD5- atypical CLL. Our findings contributed to the guideline for diagnosis of monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis.
Identification of chromosomal translocation t(2;7) breakpoints linking CDK6 to IGK locus in indolent B-cell neoplasia. The results from a series of patients with t(2;7) revealed a consistent junction between the IGK variable gene Vk3 family with an upstream region of CDK6. The overlap of molecular genetics demonstrates a common mechanism of dysregulation of CDK6 in B-cell oncogenesis.
Using multiplex PCR-based clonality assays for Ig H gene rearrangements for detection of minimal residual leukemia and lymphoma cells, and bi-clonal identification of mixed chronic lymphocytic leukemia and prolymphocytic leukemia, and sensitive detection of minimal cell population of B-cell lymphoma.
Nanoparticle-antibody conjugates for hematology and leukemia analysis. We have provided the first demonstration of quantum dot -based probes for labeling and cellular imaging of hematopoietic cells. Since 2008, as part of NSERC Strategic network for Bioplasmonic systems, we have been developing and testing surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) gold nanoparticles for targeting leukemia cell surface markers.