Bone Marrow Failure, Myelodysplastic Syndrome and Cancer Genetics
The Shimamura lab studies bone marrow failure, myelodysplastic syndromes, and genetic cancer predisposition. Our lab focuses on:
Identifying genetic causes of bone marrow failure and MDS in children and young adults
Elucidating the mechanisms of clonal evolution in bone marrow failure and MDS
Developing more effective treatments for bone marrow failure and MDS
About the lab
Mission
The goal of the Shimamura lab is to improve the diagnosis and treatment of children and adults with bone marrow failure and genetic predisposition to myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). In addition to work within the lab, our research team collaborates with experts in other programs to integrate cutting edge methods and technologies to find answers. Our research spans basic science, translational research, and clinical studies for these rare but devastating conditions. The Shimamura lab environment promotes close interactions and dialogue between basic scientific and clinical researchers to provide a uniquely integrated educational environment for those interested in medical translational research.
Culture
Science and medicine benefit from diversity. The Shimamura lab aims to foster a supportive and welcoming environment for talented researchers and trainees from diverse backgrounds, lifestyles, and experiences. We strive to create the best environment for lab members to work towards their professional and personal goals as individuals. Dr. Shimamura is committed to meeting regularly with each individual lab member in addition to the group lab meetings. We celebrate the accomplishments of our lab alumni.
Stories from the Shimamura Lab
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![Anna, who has SDS]()
Can we prevent leukemia in patients with SDS?
For reasons unclear, Shwachman-Diamond syndrome seems to predispose children to leukemias. Sequencing bone marrow samples collected over 10+ years, reveal possible targets for preventing leukemia.
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How families are reshaping SDS research
Both Lincoln and Chase were born Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome, a rare and incurable condition. Thanks to dedicated researchers, their parents are finding hope in the face of overwhelming odds.
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Can gene editing cure severe congenital neutropenia?
Fionn doesn’t know it yet, but cells from his bone marrow are helping scientists develop an innovative gene-editing approach that might someday cure his disease.
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Navigating the aplastic anemia journey
Hadas is a woman with many titles: daughter, sister of 12, aunt, mother. But, after her own daughter’s journey with aplastic anemia, she may have earned the right to add another — relentless researcher.
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Bone marrow-on-a-chip provides new research directions for SDS
Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome patient samples from SDSregistry successfully used in bone marrow organ chip study.
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![Ervis, who has Fanconi anemia]()
Following clinical trial, boy with Fanconi anemia transfusion free
Born with Fanconi anemia (FA), 7-year-old Ervis has required monthly blood transfusions most of his life — that is until now. Learn about how a clinical trial offers hope to children with FA.
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A mother’s quest to find a cure for SDS
When Julia Hawkins learned her daughter, Poppy, had Shwachman-Diamond syndrome, a condition which increases her risk of developing leukemia, Julia was determined to do whatever necessary to accelerate research for this rare condition.
