Three major research projects in Dr. Zhang's lab are:
(1). Understand the mechanism of resistance to L-asparaginase treatment in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). L-asparaginase is used to treat pediatric ALL patients. However, resistance can occur to compromise the therapeutic efficacy. We are using cell culture, mouse ALL models and patient samples to understand the molecular mechanism that drives resistance to L-asparaginase treatment with the goal of identifying new therapeutic targets to enhance the efficacy of L-asparaginase.
(2). Elucidate the interplay between oncogenic signaling and nutrient acquisition/utilization in lymphoid malignacies. It is well-accepted that oncogenic signaling reprograms tumor cell metabolism to support growth and survival under nutrient limiting environment. However, whether nutrient availability can modulate oncogenic signaling as a means of metabolic adaptation has not been extensively explored. Using B cell lymphoma as a model, we will explore the molecular connections as well as potential therapeutic implication.
(3). Explore the role of nonessential amino acid metabolism in normal hematopoiesis. Hematopoiesis in adult originates from bone marrow where nutrient and oxygen are thought to be limited. As a result, understanding the metabolic regulation of normal hematopoiesis has become an emerging topic recently. Using mouse genetic models with deficiency on specific metabolic pathways we will investigate the role of nonessential amino acid metabolism in hematopoietic stem cell maintenance and differentiation.
Ph.D. - University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN 2002-2008
