January 2, 2025
Author(s): Darlene Dobkowski, MA
Fact checked by: Alex Biese
A researcher discussed the evolving understanding of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), from their initial classification to their potential for progression, and emphasized the scientific community’s commitment to developing new therapies despite the inherent challenges of research.
John Crispino, director of the division of experimental hematology at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, was recognized at the CURE MPN Heroes event for his dedication to the community both through his scientific breakthroughs and his advisory role for the MPN Research Foundation.
CURE also spoke with Crispino about what he has learned about patients with MPNs and the research around the condition over his years in the field. One of the things he mentioned was the disease’s transition from a myeloproliferative disorder to a myeloproliferative neoplasm. In particular, the World Health Organization (WHO) changed the classification of these conditions to MPNs to reflect the understanding that these conditions are a type of cancer.