Han Xiao L&S Biological Sciences
Role of Ubiquitin-Proteasome System in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a blood cancer caused by the failure to produce mature blood cells, with a five-year survival rate below 30%. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of AML is essential for developing effective therapies. Recent studies show that high heme levels in AML cells boost the electron transport chain (ETC), which enhances overall cancer cell survival. This happens when heme triggers the degradation of BACH1, a protein that normally represses ETC gene expression. Our lab discovered that an enzyme called FEM1B, an E3 ligase, promotes this heme-dependent degradation of BACH1. However, it remains unclear how heme enables FEM1B to recognize and bind BACH1. My project focuses on mutating specific binding sites on BACH1 to study how these changes affect its interaction with FEM1B in the presence of heme. By uncovering how this degradation process works, we hope to identify new strategies to block cancer-specific energy pathways in AML.
Message To Sponsor
I greatly appreciate the opportunity provided by SURF, which will allow me to have an immersive research experience throughout the summer. “With the power of science, one day, the so-called terminal diseases will become curable,” I have deep faith in this statement. The SURF fellowship would support this vision by recognizing my potential as an emerging scientist and encouraging me to continue pursuing impactful research.