DOWN SYNDROME & LEUKEMIA

Down syndrome is caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21 (called trisomy 21 or T21). This additional genetic material can affect various aspects of development and function in the body, including the immune system. People with Down Syndrome have a higher likelihood of developing leukemia, particularly acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), compared to the general population. This increased risk is primarily attributed to genetic factors.

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Our research seeks to answer several questions:

• What is the impact of the genetic alterations on immune cell phenotypes in T21 patients?

• How do the T21 immune cells interact and impact the overall immune landscape?

• How does the T21 immune landscape result in an increased likelihood for ALL?