Gene switches that make stem-like cells in multiple myeloma
Core transcriptional regulators of malignant stem cell generation in multiple myeloma
['FUNDING_R37'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11163322
They are using RNA-targeted drugs to block the gene IRF4 to stop stem-like myeloma cells that can cause relapse in people with multiple myeloma.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R37'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11163322 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying how a B‑cell gene called IRF4 helps create and sustain stem-like myeloma cells that survive treatment. They will use RNA-targeted agents (antisense oligonucleotides) in laboratory-grown human myeloma cells, patient-derived samples, and animal models to lower IRF4 and observe effects on malignant progenitors and the bone marrow niche. The team will measure molecular changes, cell survival, and inflammatory signals to see if reducing IRF4 blocks the programs that drive relapse. These experiments are intended to support development of RNA-based therapies that could eventually be tested in patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with multiple myeloma—especially those with relapsed or high‑risk disease—or patients willing to donate bone marrow or tumor samples would be the most relevant candidates for related studies.
Not a fit: People without multiple myeloma, or patients whose disease is driven by biology unrelated to IRF4, are unlikely to benefit from this specific approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new RNA-based treatments that reduce relapse by eliminating stem-like myeloma cells.
How similar studies have performed: Antisense and other RNA-targeted therapies have shown promise in preclinical models and some human conditions, but directly targeting transcription factors like IRF4 in myeloma is a relatively new and unproven strategy in patients.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CREWS, LESLIE A — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: CREWS, LESLIE A
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 below.