Baochun Zhang, MD, PhD

Molecular pathogenesis and immune control of B cell lymphomas

Our research effort proceeds along two directions. 1) Using genetically modified mice to study the molecular pathogenesis of diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and Epstein-Barr virus-associated B cell lymphoma. Lymphomas derive from B cells acquiring multiple oncogenic events. Genetically engineered mice, carrying conditional gain- and/or loss-of-function mutants, allow us to assess the causal role of each individual mutational event, the cooperation of multiple such events in lymphomagenesis, and to follow up disease dynamics in vivo. These studies form the basis for identification/validation of therapeutic targets, and rational design of combinatory therapies. 2) Using our mouse models to reveal the surveillance mechanism of immune system on B cell lymphomas, with particular focuses on tumor-killing CD4+ T cells and their regulation by CD8+ regulatory T cells. This work should guide us to develop new immunotherapy strategies for B cell malignancies, and possibly other cancers as well.