Marta Chesi, Ph.D.

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SUMMARY

Dr. Chesi studies the biology of multiple myeloma, a tumor of antibody-producing cells in the bone marrow that leads to anemia, renal insufficiency and bone disease. She is interested in identifying the genetic events that lead to myeloma development and progression, in modeling their effects in vivo, and in developing personalized therapeutic strategies that target the cancer cells while boosting the immune system.

Focus areas

• To characterize the genetic mutations that drive multiple myeloma by using state-of-the-art genomic approaches in collaboration with Leif Bergsagel, M.D.
• The functional characterization of the mutated genes identified in genomic studies utilizing a myeloma model
• In vivo preclinical investigation of novel anti-myeloma therapeutics in a clinically predictive model in collaboration with pharmaceutical industries
• Novel approaches to activate the immune system to target myeloma

Significance to patient care

Dr. Chesi's highly translational research aims to identify recurrent genetic events and has provided the basis for a myeloma disease risk stratification utilized not only at Mayo Clinic but also around the world. The successful preclinical drug testing performed by Dr. Chesi in a unique clinically predictive model has led to the initiation of several clinical trials using the most promising compounds.