Identifying harmful and harmless genetic variations in blood cancer predisposition genes

Discriminating Pathogenic from Benign Alleles of Myelodysplastic Syndrome Predisposition Genes

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11090449

This study is looking at how certain changes in a gene called DDX41 might affect the chances of developing blood disorders like myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML), so that doctors can provide better advice and support for patients at risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11090449 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific genetic variations in the DDX41 gene influence the risk of developing myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). By using advanced genome editing techniques on mouse blood progenitor cells, the researchers aim to understand the functional impact of these genetic changes. They will also employ machine learning to analyze the relationship between DDX41 variants and their clinical significance, helping to distinguish between harmful and benign mutations. This work could lead to better genetic counseling and risk assessment for patients with these blood disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of myelodysplastic syndrome or acute myeloid leukemia, particularly those who have undergone genetic testing.

Not a fit: Patients without any known genetic predisposition to blood cancers or those who do not have a family history of these conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve the ability to predict which patients are at higher risk for developing blood cancers based on their genetic makeup.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has successfully identified genetic variants associated with blood cancers, suggesting that this approach has the potential for significant breakthroughs.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.