ENL-targeting molecules for treating acute myeloid leukemia
Official title: A Multiplatform Approach to Develop ENL-Targeting Molecules as Drug Candidates for Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Funded at Texas A&m University · NIH-11336884 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A cancer-focused project tests new small molecules that block a key AML driver, aiming to help people with acute myeloid leukemia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,443,475 |
| NIH project number | 4R01CA291968-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11336884 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with acute myeloid leukemia, particularly those with MLL (KMT2A) alterations and ENL pathway involvement, could be candidates for future trials.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose AML does not involve ENL/MLL alterations may not benefit from this approach.
What this research studies
This project focuses on AML driven by MLL (KMT2A) alterations and specifically targets the ENL YEATS domain to disrupt cancer-cell gene control. Researchers will use a multiplatform approach, including a NanoBRET system to measure cellular potency and in vivo studies to evaluate pharmacokinetics and efficacy in mouse models. The goal is to advance promising ENL inhibitors toward oral therapy options for AML patients. Results could inform future clinical development and potential new treatment options for those with poor-prognosis AML.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to new oral therapies that improve survival and quality of life for AML patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous ENL YEATS inhibitors showed partial efficacy but had issues with selectivity and stability; this project builds on that by improving potency and pharmacokinetic properties.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m University
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Wenshe Ray — Texas A&m University
- Study coordinator: Liu, Wenshe Ray
Related research
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.