Francesco Boccalatte, PhD

My research focuses on the epigenetic mechanisms of cancer growth and resistance to treatment. In this context, my main focus is on acute leukemia (mostly T-ALL), where my team is exploring how chromatin conformation changes are driving the expression of oncogenes that are favoring the initiation and progression of leukemia. In parallel, we are also studying chromatin architecture as a controller of normal hematopoietic differentiation and how the same mechanisms are hijacked in leukemia. To test these mechanisms, we have set up a vast array of genome-wide screenings and genome editing technologies. Such pipelines, combined with advanced computational algorithms, are helping us to predict the best targets for therapy. As additional tools, we are also taking advantage of single-cell approaches, high-resolution microscopy and drug screenings to interrogate the crosstalk between cancer cells and their microenvironment, and how this may impact tumor resistance.

Our final goal is to combine the results of these studies towards the development of more efficient and targeted treatments for cancer patients, striving to design new therapies that prevent tumor relapse and resistance to chemotherapy.

My team is working across the border between NYU Grossman School of Medicine in New York and the Candiolo Cancer Center in Turin, Italy, seamlessly integrating the state-of-the-art technology and expertise available at both locations in a unique collaborative environment.