Ameet R. Kini, MD, PhD Associate Professor Department of Pathology Director, MD / PhD Program Stritch School of Medicine Medical Director, Flow Cytometry Division of Hematopathology (888) LUHS-888 akini@lumc.edu

Clinical Interests

Hematopathology, Flow Cytometry

Research Interests

Our laboratory examines the role of angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels) in hematologic malignancies (leukemias and lymphomas). The notion that angiogenesis is important in cancer was first popularized by Dr. Judah Folkman in 1971. Since then numerous studies have shown that growth of tumors beyond a diameter of about 2mm requires angiogenesis. Anti-angiogenic strategies have been successfully used in mouse models to eliminate tumors. A large number of clinical trials are now taking place to assess different anti-angiogenic drugs in humans.

Meanwhile, the role of angiogenesis in leukemias was ignored because there did not appear to be any obvious need for angiogenesis in these "blood cancers". However, numerous recent studies have demonstrated increased bone marrow angiogenesis in leukemias, and this bone marrow angiogenesis may be required for the proliferation of the leukemic cells. In addition, it appears that the "angiogenic" factors play an important role in cell survival and apoptosis, through paracrine or autocrine loops.

Putative mechanisms of angiogenesis in leukemia and lymphoma

Angiogenesis in hematologic malignancies has now become a hot research field and over 300 papers have been published in the last 5 years alone. Our research focuses on angiogenesis in acute promyelocytic leukemia, a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia. This research may lead to novel, relatively non-toxic, anti-angiogenic therapies for hematologic malignancies.

We use a wide array of techniques in cell and molecular biology including RT-PCR, cell culture, and assays for apoptosis and differentiation. Students, residents and fellows are welcome to perform research rotations. A number of interesting projects are available. Projects will be designed taking into consideration the student’s interests and the amount of time available for research.

Publications

View a partial list of Dr. Kini's publications through the National Library of Medicine's PubMed online database.