Investigating how ceramide affects energy production in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells

Ceramide and Cell Metabolism: Defining the Role of Sphingolipids in Modulating Mitochondrial Bioenergetics of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

NIH-funded research University of Virginia · NIH-10990219

This study is looking at how a fat molecule called ceramide affects the energy production in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells, with the goal of finding new ways to help treat patients by making these cancer cells die off more effectively.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Virginia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlottesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10990219 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), the most common type of adult leukemia, and explores how ceramide, a type of fat molecule, influences the energy production processes in CLL cells. The study aims to understand how ceramide can disrupt the metabolism of these cancer cells, particularly by targeting their mitochondrial function. By using advanced techniques to analyze cell metabolism, the researchers hope to identify new ways to induce cell death in CLL, potentially leading to more effective treatments for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia who are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of leukemia or those who do not have chronic lymphocytic leukemia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that improve outcomes for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in cancer cells, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Charlottesville, 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.