Dinesh S. Rao, M.D., Ph.D.

A physician-scientist, Rao investigates the molecular underpinnings of cancer and the processes that disrupt the normal differentiation of blood stem cells, which create all the cell types that make up the blood and immune system. He is particularly interested in the mechanisms of gene regulation, and how microRNAs and other non-coding RNAs regulate blood stem cell development and cancer formation. 

Rao’s early studies focused on obtaining insights into disease directly from patient biopsy material. By generating detailed scientific analyses of potential targets initially identified in patients, Rao discovered important new mechanisms of leukemia causation and propagation. He identified several non-coding RNA species and RNA-binding proteins that are overexpressed in acute leukemia and characterized novel post-transcriptional mechanisms of gene regulation. 

These findings could aid in the development of targeted therapies for acute lymphoblastic and myeloid leukemias. Additionally, his exploration of novel elements of gene expression regulation in blood stem cell development has helped to highlight the complex genetic networks that are co-opted by cancer cells. Based on these mechanistic studies, Rao is exploring novel diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets in the laboratory with the goal of translating his findings into new therapies for patients.