The transplant program at WCMC is dedicated to pursuing clinical and translational research while providing superior patient care. Areas of research interest include:

1) Development of novel conditioning regimens for patients with advanced hematologic malignancies.

a. Leukemia

The concept of reduced intensity transplantation has not entirely fulfilled its promise. We now routinely offer transplantation to patients well into their 70s, but toxicity, chronic GVHD and recurrence remain major problems. WCMC transplant program is focusing on the development of new regimens with increased efficacy, but limited chronic GVHD. We have studied various modifications of current regimens as well as novel methods of GVHD prophylaxis. Examples of ongoing studies include the combination of CPX-351, a novel anti leukemic drug as a "bridge to transplant" (U.Gergis PI) or the use of clofarabine conditioning regimens. New studies under development will involve the incorporation of hypomethylating agents before transplant as a method of chemotherapy sensitization as well as post-transplant administration of hypomethylating agents. In the near future we hope to be able to assign treatment based on sophisticated detection of minimal residual disease.

b. Lymphoma

Thanks to the introduction of targeted treatment approaches, the outcome for patients with lymphoma has improved dramatically for most, but not all patients.We are particularly focused on improving outcomes for patients with lymphoma who failed initial treatments. We are devising novel treatment combinations and conditioning regimens particularly suited for such patients.

c. Myeloma

Outcomes for patients with myeloma have much improved. Patients live longer, healthier and more productive lives than ever before. This has in large part occurred because of the introduction of autologous transplant which remains a mainstay of the treatment for myeloma. In induces longer and better remissions than any other treatment and patients often can be without treatment (treatment holidays) for prolonged periods of time. But continued research is needed to reach the goal of cure. Two ongoing studies evaluate the incorporation of high dose lenalidomide and high dose Bendamustine in transplant conditioning regimens. The Principal Investigators for these studies are Dr. Mark and Dr. Shore respectively. Protocols for allogeneic transplantation are under development and may be suitable for patients with high risk disease.