Investigating the genetic factors that lead to chronic lymphocytic leukemia from its precursor state.
Official title: The genetic and epigenetic etiology of progression from the precursor state to chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
Funded at Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-10914019 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes might help us understand why some people with a condition called monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (MBL) might develop chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) later on, especially focusing on African Americans, so we can find ways to better predict and prevent the disease.
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 | September 8, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $783,300 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA258465-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10914019 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis, especially those who are African American or have a family history of CLL.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis or chronic lymphocytic leukemia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how certain genetic and epigenetic factors contribute to the progression from monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (MBL), a precursor to chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). By studying a large cohort of individuals, particularly African Americans, the research aims to identify biomarkers that can predict which individuals with MBL are at higher risk of developing CLL. This could lead to targeted prevention strategies and better management of the disease. The study will involve screening a significant number of African American individuals to establish a dedicated cohort for further analysis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies for chronic lymphocytic leukemia, particularly in high-risk populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying genetic markers for other types of leukemia, suggesting potential for similar breakthroughs in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Mayo Clinic Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Slager, Susan L — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Slager, Susan L
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Why some early B‑cell changes progress to chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
This work looks at inherited gene variants and chemical tags on DNA to find which people with monoclonal B‑cell lymphocytosis (MBL) are more likely to develop CLL.
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Investigating genetic factors linked to chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
This study is looking at how certain rare genetic changes, especially in the ATM gene, might make some people more likely to develop chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and it's inviting patients with known ATM gene changes to help us learn more about how these genetics relate to CLL and family cancer history.
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Tracing how chronic lymphocytic leukemia can change into Richter’s syndrome
A physician-scientist is studying why CLL sometimes changes into Richter’s syndrome and how this transition happens at the genetic level, with the goal of better outcomes for people living with CLL.
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Paradigm shift in managing untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia in older adults
A Mayo Clinic doctor is leading a national collaboration to advance new frontline treatments for older adults with chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
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AVO: a new triplet therapy for untreated high-risk CLL
A new, time-limited combination therapy (acalabrutinib, venetoclax, and obinutuzumab) is being tested for people with newly diagnosed high-risk CLL to see how well it works and how safe it is.
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Rewiring cancer pathways to trigger death in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
A Stanford-led study aims to use a new class of small molecules to flip cancer-driving signals so CLL cells die, offering hope for patients who have exhausted other therapies.
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.