NIH-funded research R21 grant

Investigating a target for treating age-related blood diseases

Official title: Targeting 15-PGDH in Age-Related Hematologic Disease

Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10734073 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how getting older affects the way our bodies make blood cells and how this might lead to blood cancers, especially in older adults, by focusing on a specific enzyme that could help find better treatments for these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project startDecember 1, 2022
Project endNovember 30, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$241,500
NIH project number5R21AG075573-02
Project IDNIH-10734073 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those diagnosed with hematologic malignancies such as leukemia or lymphoma.

Less likely to help

Patients who are younger or do not have age-related blood diseases may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how aging affects blood cell production and the development of blood cancers, particularly in older adults. It examines the role of a specific enzyme, 15-PGDH, and its impact on hematopoietic stem cells, which are crucial for generating blood cells. By studying the changes in these stem cells as people age, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve treatment outcomes for age-related hematologic diseases. Patients may be involved in trials that explore new treatment options based on these findings.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve the management and outcomes of blood cancers in older patients.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in hematologic diseases, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Case Western Reserve University
    Cleveland, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Desai, Amar — Case Western Reserve University
  • Study coordinator: Desai, Amar

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.