Finding new molecules to target leukemia cells
Official title: Cheminformatics-based identification of leukemia-targeting molecules
Funded at Rice University · NIH-11045716 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cancer-fighting drugs can target and kill leukemia cells while protecting healthy cells, with the hope of finding better treatment options for older adults with acute myeloid leukemia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rice University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $188,600 |
| NIH project number | 5R21CA280500-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045716 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, particularly those over the age of 65.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of leukemia or those who are not diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a severe form of blood cancer that primarily affects older adults. The team is investigating how leukemia cells respond to mitochondrial toxins, which could lead to new treatment options. By using advanced bioinformatics and laboratory techniques, they aim to identify combinations of drugs that selectively kill cancer cells while sparing healthy cells. This approach could improve outcomes for patients who currently have limited treatment options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and targeted therapies for patients with acute myeloid leukemia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results using mitochondrial-targeting therapies in cancer treatment, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Rice University
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kirienko, Natasha — Rice University
- Study coordinator: Kirienko, Natasha
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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.