Leanne Wiedemann

Biography

Leanne Wiedemann is currently working as Staff Scientist at Stower Institute of Medical Research

Research Interest

The primary objective of my research is to understand the function of genes altered as a result of tumor-associated chromosomal translocations, both their normal function and defining their role in the oncogenic process. Following our lab’s molecular characterization of the MLL locus and chromosomal translocations, in light of MLL’s critical role in leukemogenesis, we have begun to define both the normal and oncogenic mechanisms of action and down stream targets. Both trx in Drosophila and MLL (in rodent and human) gene products are known to play key roles in the regulation of Hox genes. Hox genes themselves have been implicated in the oncogenic processes in the hematopoietic system; therefore, it is important to define the cis and trans-regulatory pathways which regulate this gene family as well as their downstream targets. The Stowers Institute provides a rich collaborative environment to explore the roles of MLL in Hox gene regulation and oncogenesis: in the context of spatial and temporal patterning in development.