Markus G. Manz Lab
We are a translational research group focused on the biology of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells, the development of the immune system, and the pathogenesis of hematologic malignancies.
Combining cutting-edge molecular and cellular approaches with in vivo models such as humanized mouse models, our lab investigates how inflammation, aging, and genetic mutations affect blood formation and immune function.
Our goal is to better understand hematopoietic stem cells, in order to develop innovative therapeutic strategies, including targeted antibodies and engineered immunotherapies, to improve treatment outcomes for diseases such as acute myeloid leukemia and other blood cancers.
Understanding the Hematopoietic System and Treating its Malignancies
Hematopoietic Stem Cell (HSC) Biology and Aging
We investigate how hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) function and change over time. We focus on how aging affects the factors governing HSC self-renewal, changing its lineage commitment or bone marrow microenvironment interactions, leading to reduced immune output, myeloid bias or stem cell exhaustion.
These insights help explain the increased incidence of blood disorders and immunodeficiency in older individuals.
Inflammation and Clonal Hematopoiesis
A core focus of the lab is understanding how chronic inflammation shapes the hematopoietic system and drives clonal expansion of mutant HSCs.
We have shown that cytokines like IL-1 and signaling through Toll-like receptors promote selective growth of mutated clones (e.g., TET2), contributing to clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) and increasing the risk of leukemia and cardiovascular disease.
Immunotherapy for Hematologic Malignancies
The lab develops novel immunotherapies for blood cancers, including antibody-based strategies targeting CD117 on leukemic stem cells and adaptive approaches like CAR-T cells and fluoresceinated antibody platforms, allowing for flexible and targeted eradication of tumor cells.
These therapies are evaluated using advanced humanized mouse models, allowing precise preclinical testing of their efficacy, specificity, and safety in human-like immune environments.
Interested in joining the lab?
We're always looking for dedicated students and researchers to help us improves patients lives through meaningful research