Leukemia and lymphoma are cancers that affect the blood and bone marrow. Leukemia is a form of cancer that originates in the tissues responsible for producing blood. Typically, blood cells are formed from stem cells in bone marrow. However, in leukemia, abnormal white blood cells are produced. These leukemia cells do not die like normal cells and can even multiply, eventually outnumbering healthy white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets, which disrupts their normal functions in the body.

Lymphoma is a cancer that originates in the cells of the lymph system, which plays a crucial role in the body’s immune defense against infections and diseases. As lymph tissue is distributed throughout the body, lymphoma can start in nearly any part of it. The two main types of lymphoma are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, both of which can occur in children and adults.

Experts at the NIH’s National Cancer Institute expect the following outcomes:

“Leukemia and lymphoma are both a cancer of the immune system and all the constituent parts,” explained Dr. Vick. “Your immune system is dynamic and, thus, so are these types of cancer. As we treat them, they evolve. Then, we evolve to treat them even more effectively.”

Eric J. Vick, MD, PhD Member, Experimental Therapeutics Research Program University of Cincinnati Cancer Center Instructor, Department of Internal Medicine University of Cincinnati College of Medicine

“It’s a truly exciting time in the field of leukemia and lymphoma management and treatment,” said Dr. Vick. “The number of approved medications continues to grow, and leukemia and lymphoma have so many more options than when I started. Now, we must continue to work harder to treat leukemia and lymphoma and continue to carve a path forward for our patients.”

Dr. Vick’s journey into cancer research was sparked by a deep interest in the immune system and its potential to fight cancer. Reflecting on his path, he explains how his early academic experiences shaped his career in oncology, leading to groundbreaking work in leukemia research. This research has recently awarded him a Career Development Award from the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) and a Young Investigator Award from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

“During medical school, I started a translational project in oncology after studying immunology in graduate school, and there was no going back,” Dr. Vick shared. “I work on acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and we are attempting to target immune activation in AML and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). It’s a very difficult task, but it makes each finding and success so much more rewarding.”

Immune activation plays a key role in the development and progression of both acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). AML is a type of cancer in which the bone marrow makes a larger number of abnormal blood cells. AML is the most common type of leukemia in adults and typically gets worse quickly if it is not treated. MDS are conditions that can occur when the blood-forming cells in the bone marrow become abnormal, which leads to low numbers of one or more types of blood cells, and are considered a type of cancer.

Dr. Vick’s passion for oncology stems from both the personal connections he builds with patients and the thrill of scientific discovery. Reflecting on his work, he highlights the unique rewards of his profession and the collaborative opportunities that come with being part of the Cancer Center.

“I love the discovery and connection. I don’t think there’s another job that allows the same sort of connections with patients and the excitement when you find something new in the lab,” said Dr. Vick. “Furthermore, Cancer Center membership gives the opportunity for funding, mentorship and collaboration. Currently, I have a couple of collaborations going on with other Cancer Center members that will hopefully lead to publications.”

This past June, the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center celebrated the opening of the Blood Cancer Healing Center, which will provide additional lab space to house even more research and collaborations like Dr. Vick’s. The opening ceremony celebrated the beginning of clinical services in the facility. However, additional spaces, including researcher labs and wellness areas, are scheduled to open throughout 2024 and 2025. The Blood Cancer Healing Center serves as another statement to the shared commitment to defeat cancer while also redefining the landscape of blood cancer care and research.

Read more about the Blood Cancer Healing Center.