MicroRNAs in Leukemogenesis

Hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells can undergo cancerous transformation and become leukemic stem cells (leukemia initiating cells). "Out of control" of cell proliferation (self-renewal) and "deficient" differentiation capacity of leukemic stem cells are responsible for the development of leukemias. The network governing the "identity" of normal hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells consists of multiple layers of regulations, including epigenetic factors such as microRNAs. Altered expression of microRNAs are associated with various cancers, including leukemias. Some microRNAs function as oncogenes (oncomir) while others as tumor suppressors. We are interested in unveiling the underlying mechanisms of these microRNAs in leukemic transformation and progression.