Biological pathways disrupted in mantle cell lymphoma pathogenesis

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an aggressive, incurable non-Hodgkin lymphoma with a median survival of three years. In order to find new, more effective treatments for MCL, researchers are working to better understand how the disease develops and progresses. MCL is characterized by a specific gene translocation, which prompts an unregulated growth signal. However, this translocation is believed to be only the first event in a stream of genetic alterations required to cause the disease. Using a recently-developed test capable of pinpointing previously undetectable genetic alterations, Ronald deLeeuw is compiling a more complete catalog of the secondary genomic alterations associated with MCL. By uncovering the role of secondary genes within the progression of MCL, Ronald hopes to uncover new targets for disrupting these pathways and halting the disease.