The research experts with the Long Lab are developing novel therapeutics to boost the patient’s immune system to naturally fight the disease. By studying the immune modulatory effects of small molecule kinase inhibitors and their potential for immunotherapy, these internationally renowned scientists and researchers are guiding their work to lead to even better treatments, outcomes and, ultimately, a cure.
There is no routine blood cancer, and today, cancer is no longer solely defined by location or stage. Each patient is different, with unique biomarkers driving his or her cancer, and the Long Lab is discovering new and novel immunotherapies aimed at individualizing leukemia patients’ care — changing and directly impacting their lives.
Mission
At the OSUCCC – James, the Long Lab is part of the Experimental Hematology Lab, and their mission is to use small molecule drugs to enhance immunotherapy effectiveness for patients fighting leukemia, specifically acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). The lab’s main inspiration is the care and as yet undiscovered clinical needs of the patient.
As a group, these internationally recognized researchers work on experimental therapies for leukemia and lymphoma patients, with specific focus on ALL and CLL, and improving and creating novel treatment options that could one day lead to a cure.
How We Do It
The Long Lab’s unique focus on immunotherapy sets it apart from other research facilities. These internationally recognized scientists and researchers study the immune modulatory effects of small molecule kinase inhibitors and their potential for immunotherapy to enhance the patient’s immune system.
Who We Are
As an integral part of the OSUCCC – James Experimental Hematology Lab — one of the largest leukemia research centers in the country — the Long Lab is led by research expert and Principal Investigator Meixiao Long, MD, PhD, and comprises researchers across numerous medical and research disciplines.
This diverse team of scientists includes talented researchers from multicultural backgrounds – all who strive to reach the highest level of accomplishments – making discoveries that ultimately change leukemia patients’ lives, all while maintaining a humble demeanor, respecting each other and sharing knowledge.
The Details
The OSUCCC – Long Lab uses some of the best antibodies available to treat leukemia patients.
Currently, these experts are using specific antibodies (i.e., kinase inhibitors like ibrutinib and acalabrutinib) to enhance therapy efficacy.
Most patients end remission within one to two years without added therapy, and the Long Lab wants to identify why some patients do well with certain therapies while others struggle with them.
By enhancing existing and new therapies, all patients have a chance at better outcomes, more durable remissions and even cure.
Although there is no cure right now, the Long Lab continues collaborating partners in the medical community as well as with pharmaceutical companies to transform the way cancers are prevented, detected, treated and cured.
Breakthroughs and Discoveries
At the OSUCCC – James, the Long Lab published a paper in the Journal of Clinical Investigation on the advantages of ibrutinib.
Based on their findings, these research experts believe ibrutinib will greatly enhance efficacy of tumor treatment.
Promising immunotherapies have not yet reached their full potential, and the nationally acclaimed scientists and researchers at the Long Lab are working toward enhancing these types of therapies so that patients experience long, durable remissions for both acute and chronic leukemias.
Collaboration With Other Ohio State Labs and Research Teams
When recruiting for or seeking collaborators with the Long Lab, the team looks for those who demonstrate a passion for immunotherapy, small-molecule drug development and their interactions with signaling pathways, and the desire for moving us toward a cancer-free world.