Dr. Jeffery studies “stromal cells” that support the function of blood stem cells in the bone marrow. Cancer treatments such as irradiation and chemotherapy damage the bone marrow, and the repair of this tissue is crucial for the recovery of the blood system. She is characterizing the role of a newly identified factor produced by stromal cells in this rebuilding process. These studies have the potential to enhance our understanding of bone marrow repair, and to identify new methods for improving the recovery of the blood system in cancer patients following irradiation or chemotherapy.
Damon Runyon Researchers
Meet Our ScientistsElise C. Jeffery, PhD
Project title: "Characterizing a new hematopoietic stem cell niche factor"
Institution: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Award Program: Fellow
Sponsor(s) / Mentor(s): Sean Morrison, PhD
Cancer Type: Blood
Research Area: Stem Cell Biology