Investigating how T cell leukemia enters the central nervous system
Official title: T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia entry into the central nervous system
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11070796 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) spreads to the protective layers around the brain and spinal cord, with the goal of finding new ways to help patients avoid this serious issue and improve their treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $54,538 |
| NIH project number | 1F30CA298305-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070796 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and young adults diagnosed with T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, particularly those at risk for CNS involvement.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of leukemia or those who do not have acute lymphoblastic leukemia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) infiltrates the central nervous system (CNS), particularly the meninges, which are the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The study aims to explore the mechanisms that allow leukemia cells to migrate into this area, despite the CNS being considered an immune-privileged site. By examining the pathways and factors involved in this process, the research seeks to identify potential targets for new therapies that could improve treatment outcomes for patients with T-ALL. The findings could lead to more effective strategies for preventing CNS involvement in leukemia, which is a significant clinical challenge.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options and outcomes for patients with T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding lymphocyte trafficking into the CNS, but this specific focus on T-ALL is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chung, Hyunsoo — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Chung, Hyunsoo
Related research
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Combinatorial targeting for high-risk B-cell ALL treatment
A research effort at West Virginia University is exploring a combination therapy for adult B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia using targeted gene silencing and a small-molecule compound to improve treatment in patients.
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Understanding why Latino children have a higher risk of childhood ALL
This project looks at why Latino children are more likely to develop acute lymphoblastic leukemia and whether genetic ancestry plays a role, with the goal of improving prevention and outcomes.
-
Targeting obesity to improve survival for children with ALL
A new approach explores whether reducing obesity-related factors can make chemotherapy work better for kids with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
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.