Our Research

Welcome to the Walter Laboratory. Our research is focused on human acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We are particularly interested in improving antibody-based therapies for this hematological malignancy, both by optimizing the efficacy and safety profile of existing therapeutics as well as through the preclinical and early clinical development of novel antigen-directed immunotherapies. As recent examples of latter efforts, we have contributed to candidate drug identification and preclinical development of 5 novel agents that have subsequently advanced to clinical testing (SGN-CD33A, SGN-CD123A, AMG 330, AMV-564, and APVO436). A major area of focus of our research lies in the delineation of the mechanisms of action and resistance that are relevant for antibody-based AML therapeutics and the rational development of combination therapies that can overcome drug resistance. Many of our studies conducted over the last years have aimed to optimize use of CD33-targeted and, more recently, CD123-targeted therapies. In clinical studies, we are involved in the conduct of trials testing novel treatments and innovative care approaches for AML patients. Finally, in collaborative research, we participate in collaborative projects utilizing large patient datasets to develop and improve diagnostic and prognostic tools for people with AML.