Developing a longer-lasting version of a cancer-fighting enzyme for better treatment outcomes

Engineering in vivo half-life extension of a novel mammalian asparaginase to increase feasibility of pan-cancer therapy

['FUNDING_SBIR_1'] · ENZYME BY DESIGN, INC. · NIH-10917942

This study is testing a new version of a medicine called L-asparaginase, which helps treat certain types of leukemia by starving cancer cells, and it's designed to be safer and more effective for adults, especially those with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), to improve their treatment options.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_SBIR_1']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorENZYME BY DESIGN, INC. (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10917942 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a new version of the enzyme L-asparaginase, which is used to treat certain types of leukemia by depleting a vital nutrient that cancer cells need to grow. The new enzyme, EBD-300, is designed to be less toxic and more effective for adult patients, particularly those with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). By reducing side effects and improving the enzyme's persistence in the body, the research aims to enhance treatment options for adults who currently have limited access to this therapy. The approach involves advanced engineering techniques to modify the enzyme's properties for better performance in clinical settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia or other related leukemias who are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with leukemia types that do not respond to L-asparaginase or those who are not eligible for enzyme therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve treatment outcomes for adult leukemia patients by providing a safer and more effective therapy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar enzyme therapies, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

CHICAGO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.