The MLL-AF9 transformed cord blood cells used in this model display a unique sensitivity for ZOL such that strategies combining chemotherapy for MLL-rearranged AML leukemias with ZOL could target the leukemic stem cell population emerging in the hematopoietic niche in proximity to bone osteoclasts where ZOL is sequestered. The gene discussed is MLLT3; the disease is acute myeloid leukemia.