Andrew D. Leavitt, MD

Activities in my research laboratory focus on the role of MPL signaling in megakaryocytopoiesis and hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) biology. This includes studies of the role of signaling through Raf kinase family members; Raf family members play a critical role in the classic MAP kinase pathway, an important component of MPL signaling. We have identified multiple rolls for B-Raf signaling in myelopoiesis, and are now exploring its role in myeloid malignancies. We are also interested in generating human hematopoietic stem cells from human embryonic stem cells, with a particular interest in the role of miRNAs in this process. To help this project we are developing hESC reporter cell lines using gene knock-in approaches to help improve directed HSC development. The clinical BMT laboratory participates in a wide range of clinical trials as part of the UCSF adult hematopoietic malignancies/transplant program.