Nahal Lalefar

About Me

Dr. Lalefar has been working for the last several years as a senior fellow with Dr. Robert Ryan studying hematopoietic stem cell self-renewal utilizing Wnt, a protein that promotes maintenance of stem cells in a self-renewing state. Dr. Lalefar has developed within nanodisksa biomimetic delivery platform for stem cell expansion, with the goal of promoting hematopoietic stem cell self-renewal in the absence of differentiation. In June 2016, Dr. Lalefar joined the clinical faculty focusing on stem cell transplantation. She is continuing her work on hematopoietic stem cells with Dr. Ryan and will be expanding her research into translational studies that are synergistic with Dr. Ryan’s laboratory and Dr. Walters’ stem cell program. While early in her career, she has already received several honors and awards including ASH grant and recognition for her leadership, role, and clinical care.

Selected Research and Publications:

1. Lalefar N, Witkowski A, Simonsen J, Ryan R. A “Wnt-erized” morphogen transport vehicle induces hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell expansion. (manuscript submitted to Journal of Nanobiotechnology)
2. Lalefar N, Walters M. Graft Failure after Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Hemoglobin Disorders: Successful Application of a Rescue Regimen. American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting online abstract. Blood: Volume 126, Issue 23. December 2015.
3. Lalefar N, Hagar RW. A Comparison of Hematologic Parameters in Patients with Sickle Cell Disease Undergoing Red Cell Exchange Using Terumo BCT Spectra Optia and COBE Spectra Apheresis Systems. American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting online abstract. Blood: Volume 126, Issue 23. December 2015.
4. Lalefar N, Raphael R. Thrombotic Disorders. Supportive Care in Pediatric Oncology. Eds. Agrawal AK, Hastings CH, Feusner J. Berlin: Springer-Velag; 2014.
5. Lalefar NR, Lubin, B. Sibling Donor Cord Blood Program: Children’s Hospital Research Center Oakland and Beyond. Stem Cell Banking, Stem Cell Biology, and Regenerative Medicine. Ed. Dusko Ilic. Humana Press/Springer Science, New York, 2014.
6. Lalefar NR, Ozeran JD. Iron overload in childhood cancer. Pediatric Blood & Cancer. 2012;58(7).
7. Lalefar, N, Tablizo, M, Roberto L. Subpleural Cysts in Children with Down Syndrome (abstract). Journal of Investigative Medicine. Volume 58, Number 1. Pg 234-235. January 2010.