Yang, Jun J PHD

Down syndrome (DS) is one of the strongest risk factors for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), conferring a 20-fold increased risk compared to children without DS. In this project, we propose to leverage large-scale genomic datasets generated through the INCLUDE and KidsFirst initiatives, and apply our novel systems biology analyses to characterize signaling networks in DS-ALL with a particular focus on features that distinguish DS-ALL from ALL in children without DS. This project will address fundamental questions of why children with DS have an increased risk of ALL and our findings may guide development of novel therapies for this unique group of patients.