About us

The Wiemels and de Smith laboratory is focused on finding the causes of childhood cancer. We explore genetic, environmental, and infectious causes, and seek to prevent this illness in our most vulnerable population: children.

We use molecular and epidemiological methodology and resources from California and around the world. Some recent discoveries include findings that:

• Certain inherited genetic factors can promote specific types of leukemia
• Exposure to tobacco produces specific mutations in children, contributing to leukemia
• A specific virus (CMV) when contracted prenatally can contribute to leukemia
• Immune development is altered at birth in children who get leukemia later in childhood

Our ultimate goal is prevention of cancer, and we also study short and long term health of children who survive the disease to try to improve their lives.

POSTDOCS available! Please contact us for more information on projects.

Funding