• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia 

Dr. Burger's research focus is to understand and target the cross talk between malignant B lymphocytes and the tissue microenvironment which leukemia and lymphoma cells utilize for their growth and survival. His research focus is chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and the role of B cell receptor (BCR) signaling and macrophages termed nurselike cells (NLC) in CLL disease biology. NLC activate BCR signaling, which can be targeted with kinase inhibitors blocking the BCR signaling-related Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK), PI3 kinase isoforms, and spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK). We also characterize downstream effects of BCR signaling in CLL, as well as interactions between CLL and T cells that support the growth of the CLL cells. In addition to laboratory studies, Dr. Burger has been leading pivotal clinical trials that established kinase inhibitors, such as the BTK inhibitor ibrutinib, as the new standard therapy for CLL patients. Dr. Burger's current clinical research interest is to advance the use of new targeted agents in CLL therapy by developing innovative combination and limited-duration therapy approaches.