Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) divide and differentiate into all blood cell types throughout life.
In addition to oxygen-carrying red blood cells, these types include innate immune cells such as macrophages and neutrophils as well as adaptive immune cells such as B and T cells. As we age, HSC function declines, and the risk of blood cancers such as leukemia increases. In a review paper published in Blood, JAX Associate Professor Jennifer Trowbridge, Ph.D., presents the factors and processes that contribute to HSC decline with age. She also discusses possible targets and timing for intervention approaches to maintain robust HSC function over time.
Trowbridge was recently named an Emerging Leader as an outstanding early-career scientist by The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research.
Trowbridge is the Dattels Family Chair at JAX in support of her research into the cellular changes that can lead to leukemia.