How WM Cells Interact with Their Microenvironment?

Dr. Aldo Roccaro, Italy

Our previous research demonstrated that the bone marrow (BM) niche plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) by regulating the behavior and survival of malignant cells. Building on these findings, we aim to define the cellular and molecular crosstalk between WM cells and the BM microenvironment at single-cell resolution. This work will identify the key interactions that drive tumor growth, disease progression, and resistance to therapy. By targeting these supportive signals within the BM niche, we seek to disrupt the mechanisms that sustain WM cells. Ultimately, this strategy may enhance treatment efficacy and improve patient outcomes through the development of novel microenvironment-targeted therapies.