Work in my laboratory has two major focuses. The first is the understanding of cell signalling in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In particular, we are studying the role of the CSF1R (colony stimulating factor 1 receptor) expressed on AML cells and its interaction with CSF1 expressed on supporting stroma cells. Patients with high levels of CSF1R on their AML cells have a worse outcome, and the interaction of CSF1 and CSF1R is a potential therapeutic target. We are also assessing the role of Syk in the viability and drug resistance of AML cells. The second major focus of the laboratory is the banking of primary leukemic cells from patients throughout the course of their disease. These cells are then provided to researchers at UHN and around the world to advance our understanding of the disease.