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Graft-versus-host Disease (GvHD) is a common devastating side-effect of bone marrow transplantation. More than 50% of children suffer from moderate to life-threatening GvHD after bone marrow transplantation. GvHD results when the primary leukemia-fighting cells in the transplants become overzealous and begin to attack not only the leukemia, but also the patient’s skin, intestines, liver, and mucosa. Dr. Choi has demonstrated that modulating a gene called interferon gamma receptor in these cells preserves the potent anti-leukemia activities while inhibiting GvHD. Dr. Choi's Rays of Hope St. Baldrick’s Research Grant aims to identify the mechanism underlying the actions of this gene to develop safe and efficient therapeutic strategies.

This grant is named for the Rays of Hope Hero Fund which honors the memory of Rayanna Marrero by giving hope through research funding. She is remembered for her infectious smile and energetic spirit which continue to inspire so many.