Investigating the causes of a rare intestinal cancer

Clinical and Genetic Origins of Monomorphic Epitheliotropic Intestinal T Cell Lymphoma

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11003697

This study is looking at a rare and tough type of cancer called Monomorphic Epitheliotropic Intestinal T-cell Lymphoma (MEITL) to understand how certain genes, especially the SETD2 gene, might play a role in its development, with the hope of finding better treatments for people affected by this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11003697 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on Monomorphic Epitheliotropic Intestinal T-cell Lymphoma (MEITL), a rare and aggressive cancer with a poor prognosis. The team will explore the genetic factors, particularly the role of the SETD2 gene, in the development of this disease using a specialized mouse model. By understanding how SETD2 loss and the activation of certain oncogenes contribute to cancer cell transformation, the researchers aim to identify potential new treatment strategies. The findings could lead to more effective therapies for patients suffering from MEITL and related conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Monomorphic Epitheliotropic Intestinal T-cell Lymphoma or those with related lymphomas that exhibit SETD2 deficiencies.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of lymphomas or those without genetic alterations in SETD2 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of targeted therapies that significantly improve survival rates for patients with MEITL.

How similar studies have performed: While research on MEITL is limited, previous studies on SETD2 in other cancers have shown promising results, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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.
Conditions Cancer GenesCancer-Promoting GeneCancersCeliac Disease
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.