Steven J. Collins M.D.
Institutional Affiliation
Professor of Medicine
University of Washington School of Medicine
http://myprofile.cos.com/COLLINS45
Education
Kenyon College, B.A.
Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons
Internship
University of Michigan Affiliated Hospitals – Department of Internal Medicine
Residency
University of Michigan Affiliated Hospitals – Department of Internal Medicine
Research
CRAC Channel Regulation of Myeloid Leukemia Cell Proliferation
Impact
We wish to determine whether the pharmacological inhibition of specific calcium channels will enhance the differentiation and inhibit the proliferation of myeloid leukemia cells. This could impact the therapy of patients with acute myeloid leukemia.
Summary of Research
Human myeloid leukemia results from the abnormal proliferation and accumulation of immature blood cells. We have discovered that a particular enzyme activated by calcium signaling is an important regulator of multiple different molecular pathways that enhance myeloid leukemia cell proliferation. In exploring how this particular calcium - regulated enzyme becomes activated in leukemia cells, we have discovered that certain cell membrane proteins that channel calcium entry into cells are potentially important regulators of proliferation in myeloid leukemia cells. Our observations suggest that inhibiting the activity of such calcium channels would inhibit myeloid leukemia cell proliferation. Our proposed experiments will explore the relationship between the activity of this calcium channel and the proliferation of myeloid leukemia cells. Our studies will provide the critical groundwork for determining whether pharmacological agents which inhibit this calcium channel activity would serve as a novel approach to effectively treat human myeloid leukemia. |
