Section: Research

Merav Socolovsky, Ph.D.,MBBS

Academic Role: Assistant Professor

Faculty Appointment(s) In:
   Cancer Biology
   Pediatrics

Other Affiliation(s):
   Interdisciplinary Graduate Program
   Program in Immunology and Virology

Molecular mechanisms regulating the homeostasis of hematopoietic progenitros

     The production of differentiated blood cells requires tight coordination of three processes: cell division, cell survival, and expression of lineage-specific genes (maturation). Coordination of these three processes is  critical for the production of exactly the right number of blood cell progeny per unit time (blood cell production rate). Conversely, lack of coordination between cell division, cell survival and cell maturation is characteristic of leukemic cells. Our lab is focusing on understanding how cell-cycle progression, cell survival and cell maturation are coordinated within red-cell progenitors. We are using mouse models in which the rate of red cell formation is vastly increased over the normal rate, in order to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that control progenitor cell homeostasis.

     A major obstacle to molecular study of red-cell progenitors had been the lack of direct means with which to identify these cells within the blood forming tissue. We have recently developed novel methodology that overcomes this difficulty. Using cell-surface markers, we are able to identify red cell progenitors at specific maturation stages directly within tissue (Figure 2). We are employing this novel methodology in combination with other molecular and genetic tools in the mouse, to identify rate-determining steps and new stress-responsive genes in red cell progenitors.

     Genes identified by this work may shed light on mechanisms of leukemic transformation and red cell production disorders. They may offer ways to increase the efficiency of stem cell- based therapies, in conditions such as anemias, recovery from chemotherapy or bone -marrow transplantation.

Office: LRB 403
Phone: 508-856-3743
E-mail: Merav.Socolovsky@umassmed.edu

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