The Starczynowski Laboratory is interested in the molecular, cellular, and genetic basis of hematologic malignancies, with a specific focus on myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). MDS is a hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) disorder resulting in abnormal blood cell production and a propensity to progress to AML. Unfortunately, the complexity and heterogeneity of MDS and lack of mouse models has impeded our understanding and treatment of this disease. The long-term objective of the Starczynowski laboratory is to identify altered genes and signaling pathways, and understand the contribution of these alterations to the pathogenesis of MDS and AML. The overarching goal is to eventually provide novel therapies to patients with myeloid malignancies.