Kay L. Medina, Ph.D.

Fundamental to understanding blood cell homeostasis and disease, is the identification and characterization of regulatory molecules that control blood cell genesis.

My research is focused on understanding the biological processes involved the generation of B lymphocytes from bone marrow hematopoietic stem cells (HSC). To gather this information, we are learning how the B cell differentiation program is activated in HSCs.

Currently, our research is focused on the regulatory connection between the receptor tyrosine kinase, Flt3, and the B lineage specific cell fate determinant, EBF. Signaling via Flt3 in differentiating HSCs is important for expression of EBF and induction of the B cell developmental program. In addition to orchestrating B cell differentiation, EBF also plays an important role in silencing the stem cell program, a key event in B lineage commitment.

Using a variety of cellular and molecular approaches, we are identifying novel pathways activated by Flt3 signaling, leading to EBF expression, resulting in silencing of the stem cell program, facilitating B cell commitment.

<> The overall goals of my research are: 1) better understand mechanisms of B cell development to boost production of B cells in the aged or after therapy related ablation and/or stem cell transplantation; 2) identify immune parameters that can be manipulated to maximize B cell vaccine responses; and 3) pinpoint genetic perturbations leading to immunodeficiencies.