Loretta Li, MD

Dr. Li studies a high-risk subtype of B-cell ALL, occurring in about 15% of B-cell ALL patients that is dependent on the activity of a signaling pathway, JAK2, but is resistant to classical Jak2 inhibitors (Type I), due to several acquired mutations. A Type II JAK2 inhibitor shows promise in mouse models of B-cell ALL, increasing overall survival and reducing cancer growth but cannot be tested in humans due to its poor chemical properties.

Dr. Li will identify alternatives to this compound that can be developed for use in human clinical studies. Dr. Li will use two strategies: first, she will test a panel of novel type II JAK2 inhibitors and second, a panel of compounds that selectively degrade JAK2 within cancer cells (JAK2 degraders) in B-cell ALL cells and animal models.

“I am incredibly grateful for CureSearch’s support. This funding came at a critical juncture in my career as I made the transition from trainee to independent investigator,” shared Dr. Li. “I am optimistic that our work will lead to new targeted agents that can be translated to clinical trials for pediatric patients with high-risk leukemia.”