Mechanisms and Dynamics of Clonal Hematopoiesis of Indeterminate Potential

Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) is an unusual alteration of DNA in the blood associated with increased risk for leukemia (both primary and cancer treatment related), heart disease, and early death. My preliminary research shows CHIP rates are elevated in many individuals predisposed to breast and/or pancreatic cancer (ATM germline mutation carriers). Therefore, CHIP poses a notable risk for this group of individuals, and determining how it arises and what drives its progression is necessary to counsel, screen and manage these patients appropriately.