Investigating how BAK protein activation affects blood cancers
Official title: BAK Autoactivation in Hematological Malignancies
Funded at Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-10886663 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called BAK helps trigger the death of cancer cells, especially in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), by examining blood samples and leukemia cells to find new ways to make cancer treatments more effective.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2020 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $345,528 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA225996-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10886663 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia or related hematological malignancies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with solid tumors or those not diagnosed with hematological malignancies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the role of the BAK protein in the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, which is crucial for responding to cancer treatments. It examines how BAK activation occurs through specific interactions with other proteins and how this process can lead to the death of cancer cells, particularly in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The study involves analyzing blood samples from patients and leukemia cell lines to understand the mechanisms of BAK activation and its effects on cancer cell survival. By exploring these pathways, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for improving cancer treatment outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the effectiveness of therapies for patients with blood cancers like AML.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting the apoptotic pathways in cancer, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Mayo Clinic Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaufmann, Scott H — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Kaufmann, Scott H
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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.