Exploring how serine metabolism affects aggressive types of acute myeloid leukemia

Determining the Role and Targeting potential of Serine Metabolism in aggressive sub-types of Acute Myeloid Leukemia

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11032874

This study is looking at how certain cancer cells in aggressive types of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) use a substance called serine to grow, with the hope of finding new ways to treat this serious blood cancer in both adults and kids.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11032874 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of serine metabolism in aggressive sub-types of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a severe blood cancer affecting both adults and children. The study aims to understand how AML cells utilize serine to support their growth and survival, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies. By examining metabolic pathways and employing advanced techniques like metabolomics and proteomics, researchers hope to identify vulnerabilities in these cancer cells. The ultimate goal is to develop more effective treatments that could improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with aggressive sub-types of acute myeloid leukemia, particularly those with MLL-rearrangements or FLT3 internal tandem duplications.

Not a fit: Patients with less aggressive forms of leukemia or those who do not have the specific genetic markers being studied may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve survival rates for patients with aggressive forms of acute myeloid leukemia.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach could be effective for AML as well.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.