Member Biography

My research focuses on understanding the molecular and microenvironmental mechanisms that regulate hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell function and how their dysregulation drives hematologic malignancies. My current work investigates the role of Rap1A and Rap1B signaling in hematopoiesis and leukemia, with particular emphasis on how these GTPases regulate both cell-intrinsic pathways and non–cell-autonomous interactions within the bone marrow niche. Using genetically engineered mouse models, multiplex spatial imaging, and molecular approaches, I study how alterations in osteoblasts and other niche components influence hematopoietic stem cell maintenance, differentiation, and leukemic transformation. In parallel, I collaborate on projects aimed at identifying therapeutic vulnerabilities in hematologic malignancies such as juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). These studies examine signaling pathways including RAS/MAPK, PI3K, and inflammatory signaling networks that drive leukemic stem cell expansion, therapy resistance, and disease progression. Through these efforts, my research integrates mechanistic studies with preclinical therapeutic evaluation in murine and patient-derived models. My future research will focus on defining how changes in the hematopoietic microenvironment regulate stem cell function and contribute to leukemogenesis. I plan to combine high-dimensional spatial imaging, functional genomics, and mouse genetics to map cellular interactions within the bone marrow niche and identify mechanisms that support leukemic stem cell survival and expansion. Ultimately, my goal is to identify microenvironment-driven vulnerabilities that can be therapeutically targeted to disrupt leukemic stem cell maintenance and improve treatments for hematologic malignancies.

Post-doctoral Fellowship - Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 2021-2026

PhD - Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India 2021